Ghana’s Parliament Closes Historic Session: 12 Key Laws Passed, Anti-LGBTQ Bill Delayed

Parliament adjourned sine die on Friday, July 31, 2026, wrapping up the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament without revisiting the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill (anti-LGBTQ bill). But don’t let that headline fool you — this was a session of serious progress. Lawmakers passed 12 major bills that will reshape Ghana’s economy, education, justice system, and trade landscape.

Why the Anti-LGBTQ Bill Wasn’t Reconsidered

Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin had assured the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, on Thursday that the bill would be revisited before the recess. During a courtesy call, Bagbin explained that three key clauses on sentencing needed further review. “Our intention is to do it before we go on recess. We are likely to do so even by tomorrow,” he said.

Despite a motion to rescind the earlier decision being on the Order Paper for Friday, the House couldn’t adopt it before adjournment. The Speaker stressed that the reconsideration was about getting the punishment regime right — not abandoning the bill.

12 Bills That Signal Ghana’s Economic Transformation

This session wasn’t just about one bill. Parliament delivered a legislative package that will drive business, innovation, and growth across the country. Here’s what passed:

• Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, 2026 — Guarantees cocoa farmers at least 70% of the Free on Board (FOB) export price through COBOD. This is a game-changer for our farmers.
• Excise Bill, 2026 — Abolishes excise taxes on locally manufactured fruit juices. Lower prices, healthier choices, and a boost for local agro-processing.
• Customs Bill, 2026 — Creates a modern legal framework for customs administration. Expect smoother international trade, stronger border security, and better revenue collection.
• Tribunals Bill, 2026 — Establishes Regional and District Tribunals to cut the backlog of court cases. Justice moves faster.
• National Defence University Ghana Bill, 2026 — A new institution to train our future leaders in defence and security.
• Community Service Bill, 2026 — Introduces community service as an alternative to jail for certain offences. Smart, humane justice reform.

Other key laws include the Ghana Investment Promotion Authority Bill, Maritime and Related Offences Bill, Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, and the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill.

What This Means for Business and Investment

For entrepreneurs and investors — both in Ghana and the diaspora — this session signals a government serious about reform. The Excise Bill alone will lower costs for local juice makers, while the Customs Bill simplifies trade. The Cocoa Board Bill ensures farmers get a fairer share, strengthening our agricultural backbone.

As Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Finance Minister, presented the Mid-Year Review of the 2026 Budget, the House concluded debate on economic policy. The message is clear: Ghana is open for business, and our Parliament is delivering the laws to make it happen.

Looking Ahead: The Anti-LGBTQ Bill and the Road Forward

The anti-LGBTQ bill remains a work in progress. Speaker Bagbin’s commitment to revisiting it after recess shows that Parliament is listening to both the people and the need for careful legislation. For now, the focus is on the 12 laws that will drive economic growth, improve justice, and empower communities.

This is the Ghana that’s moving — not just talking. And that’s something every Ghanaian, at home or abroad, can be proud of.