A letter from the Office of the President has revealed that the Attorney-General is the reason behind President Akufo-Addo's decision to withhold his assent to the anti-LGBTQ bill.

In a statement issued and signed by Nana Bediatuo on Monday, the office revealed that the Attorney-General had informed the President, via a letter dated March 18, 2024, that he had been duly served with both applications over the bill.

Thus, the Attorney-General advised the President not to take any action regarding the Bill until the issues raised by the suits are resolved by the Supreme Court.

The Office of the President made this known when it requested Parliament not to forward the anti-gay bill to President Akufo-Addo for his assent.

“It is the understanding of this Office that both applications have also been duly served on Parliament. Therefore, it would be improper for you to transmit the Bill to the President and equally improper for this Office to receive the Bill until the Supreme Court determines the matters raised in the suits,” it added.

The Office also clarified that it is a well-established legal principle that during the consideration of an interlocutory injunction application, the status quo should be maintained. This means that no action should be taken that could prejudice the requested injunctive relief or undermine the authority of the court.

“In the circumstances, you are kindly requested to cease and desist from transmitting the Bill to the President until the matters before the Supreme Court are resolved,” it added.

On Wednesday, February 28, Parliament passed the anti-LGBTQ+ bill unanimously after completing the third reading. The bill has been a topic of intense debate and discussion since its introduction to the legislature three years ago.

Proponents argue that it is necessary to uphold cultural and religious values, while opponents argue that certain provisions violate human rights and promote discrimination.

Following its passage, many opponents have expressed their discontent, with some civil society groups threatening legal action if President Akufo-Addo signs the bill into law.

President Akufo-Addo has withheld his assent pending the resolution of the bill's constitutionality, which is being contested at the Supreme Court.