Spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to prioritise the passage of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law, insisting that it was a key campaign message for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

According to him, the expectation among the public remains high following assurances given by the party during the 2024 election campaign.

Mahama on why LGBTQ+ bill is currently not Ghana’s top priority

Speaking on GTV on April 2, 2026, Sheikh Shaibu said their stance on the matter has been consistent, regardless of which government is in power.

“So, we came into the 2024 elections and 2025 with the strong hope of our current president that he will do that [sign the bill]. So, I feel what the public is feeling… But we want to say that we are not doing politics with this matter. So just as our position was strong during the former government, it remains stronger even now,” he said.

He stressed that the issue played a central role in shaping voter decisions during the elections and should not be downplayed.

He expressed disappointment over the president’s claim that the matter regarding LGBTQ+ is not an urgent issue.

“I would have wished that he stayed there but to say it is not a top priority… because during the campaign period, it was a priority matter. It was one of the key issues for public debate that was influencing people's mindset about voting,” he stated.

Addressing the President directly, Sheikh Shaibu invoked the status of the National Chief Imam and appealed for a decisive leadership on the matter.

He emphasised the Chief Imam’s strong opposition to LGBTQ+ practices.

“So, Your Excellency, good morning. I mean, you are my very good brother. Old Man [Chief Imam] is my father, is your father, and that is the old man's stance on this matter. His stance is so strong against LGBT,” he said.

He further revealed that the Chief Imam would have preferred to see the bill signed into law as a matter of urgency, indicating that it is a deeply held wish of the respected religious leader.

“His wish would have been that you will sign this or expedite the process before he dies. If there's anything I can advise before old man dies… he would wish that this thing is signed before he departs,” he added.

The spokesperson also encouraged the President to remain firm and not be swayed by external pressures.

He called for bold leadership grounded in personal convictions.

“So, if I can advise my very good brother, sir, president, remain courageous. Never step back. Your Christian conviction must be given the fullest of expression,” he urged.

Sheikh Shaibu assured the President of support from the Muslim community in taking a firm stance on the issue.

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He added that fear should not influence decision-making.

“Just like we who are Muslims will also give you the backing. We should not be afraid, and I'm sure that this subject has come because of aid that we will get or we are going to… I mean, there are a lot of things being considered,” he noted.

The passing of the Anti-LGBTQ+ bill into law was a priority for the NDC during the campaigns for election, it should be a top priority for government - Sheikh Arimiyaw Shaidu, Spokesperson for Chief Imam pic.twitter.com/GLyUbWBPi6

— GTV Ghana (@GTV_Ghana) April 2, 2026