President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his firm belief that only two genders exist — male and female and that marriage is solely between a man and a woman, as enshrined in Ghanaian cultural and religious values.
The President made this bold declaration during a fellowship and thanksgiving service with Christian leaders in Accra on Friday, February 28, 2025, to acknowledge God's role in the country's democratic journey.
President Mahama disclosed that the government was actively engaging stakeholders to reintroduce the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021, commonly referred to as the 'Anti-LGBTQ Bill'.
The bill, which was passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024, sought to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities and promote Ghanaian family values. However, it has not yet been signed into law.
Bill
According to President Mahama, the government plans to take full ownership of the bill by sponsoring it as a government-led initiative instead of a private member's motion.
“I, as a Christian, uphold the values that only two genders exist — male and female — and that marriage is between a man and a woman. I have spoken with the Speaker of Parliament so that a renewal of the expired Proper Family Values Bill should be a bill that is introduced by the government rather than as a private member's motion,” he said.
Reflection
The President further emphasised that his leadership would reflect the values and beliefs of the Ghanaian people, standing firm against external pressures to compromise the country’s cultural identity.
“It is my hope that that consultation will see a renewed Proper Family Values Bill. I believe that my leadership should be a reflection of the people that I govern, and upon this, I stand firm,” he reiterated.
Victory
President Mahama humbly acknowledged that God alone deserves the glory for the victory, emphasising that leadership is a calling to serve, not a position of privilege.
"I want to keep in mind only one Supreme Leader, and He alone deserves the Glory. This victory is not mine alone – it is for all Ghanaians," he stated.
He noted that the nation’s collective prayers and unwavering faith had played a significant role in securing this victory.
"When a nation turns to God in hope, He answers us — so have we done. We fought a good fight, and God has given us victory."
Leadership with integrity
The President reiterated that the mandate given to him by Ghanaians is a sacred trust that he does not take lightly.
“This call is to lead with integrity and wisdom and to serve with humility — a responsibility I embrace wholeheartedly,” he declared.
According to him, the new administration's vision is to reset the nation and restore hope among Ghanaians. He assured that his leadership would be transparent, accountable, and people Centered.
Government structure
Delivering on his campaign promise, President Mahama announced the appointment of only 60 ministers, a significant reduction from previous governments.
"I have now appointed just 60 ministers as I promised. This government will prioritise national interest over personal gains and ensure efficient governance that will steer Ghana towards a brighter future," he stressed.
He pledged that his administration would adopt prudent fiscal measures to cut down unnecessary expenditure and channel resources into development project.
Economic Recovery Plan
Addressing the current state of the economy, President Mahama acknowledged the deep economic challenges confronting the nation. However, he assured Ghanaians that his administration was poised to implement bold economic reforms to stabilise the economy and promote sustainable growth.
"The state of our economy is deeply concerning, but with the help of my competent team, we will stabilise the economy, restore investor confidence, and create opportunities for all," he assured.
He called on all Ghanaians to unite and support the government in its quest to transform the economy.
Sermon
During the service, the Presiding Archbishop and General Overseer of Action Chapel International Ministry, Nicholas Duncan-Williams admonished President Mahama to walk in humility and never forget the divine hand of God in his political journey.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams also reminded the President that God rules in the affairs of men and that his victory was a testament to the Lord’s favour upon his life.
“What you have done is good, for not forgetting your God when you got your victory,” the Archbishop said.
Quoting Hebrews 6:10-12, he emphasised that God is not unjust and will always remember the good works of those who serve Him.
“Walk in humility and note that the Lord never forgets. It is just a matter of time. The Bible says that God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them. Anyone who forgets is unrighteous,” he declared.
Prayers for leadership
The solemn occasion also witnessed intercessory prayers offered for the President, ministers of state, the judiciary, and the overall peace and prosperity of Ghana.
The Archbishop encouraged the President to lead with integrity, humility, and wisdom, while upholding the nation's religious and cultural values.
Gratitude
President Mahama's decision to hold the service was seen as a sign of gratitude to God and a commitment to start his administration on a foundation of faith.
The thanksgiving service was attended by Christian leaders, government officials, and members of the diplomatic corps, all joining hands to pray for a prosperous Ghana under the new administration.