Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has accused President Nana Akufo-Addo and the judiciary of overstepping their constitutional roles regarding the Anti-Gay Bill, calling on them to seek forgiveness for undermining Parliament’s authority.

Speaking to the media in Accra on Wednesday, Bagbin argued that Parliament’s authority is being compromised by undue judicial influence, which he claims weakens the legislature’s independence and violates Ghana’s constitutional framework.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear separation of powers to uphold Ghana’s democratic principles, warning that any encroachment upon Parliament’s constitutional mandate threatens the balance of governance.

He criticised such parliamentarians who prioritise loyalty to the Supreme Court over their commitment to Parliament.

He suggested that this behaviour contributed to a lack of respect for Parliament and its members, who are often treated with disdain.

Bagbin then cited the president’s refusal to acknowledge the LGBTQ+ Bill, which had been duly processed and passed by Parliament, as a significant example of this issue.

“This was exhibited by the president’s refusal to even receive the LGBTQ+ Bill without any legal basis. The judiciary is supportive of this conduct by the receipt and processing of a suit on this matter,” he noted.

He warned that such actions set dangerous precedents for Ghana’s democratic journey, emphasising, “Both the president and the judiciary have sinned against the constitution and must seek the opportunity to confess and repent to be forgiven.”