Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reiterated his commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural and moral values.

Speaking to congregants at the Believers Worship Centre in Kenyase, Ashanti Region, on 1 December 2024, he pledged to sign the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-witchcraft accusation bills into law if elected as president.

“I am committed to ensuring that Ghana remains rooted in its cultural and moral values. If elected, I will sign into law the anti-LGBTQ+ bill and the anti-witchcraft accusation bill because our traditions and beliefs must be protected from undue external influence,” he said during the church service.

Dr. Bawumia also sought divine blessings for his presidential campaign and emphasised the importance of peaceful elections. “I believe in the power of prayer, and I call on all of you to pray for Ghana and for the success of the upcoming elections. Without God, we labour in vain,” he added.

The Vice President's comments come amid debates over Ghana's anti-LGBTQ+ bill, which seeks to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities, and the anti-witchcraft accusation bill aimed at addressing abuses linked to witchcraft allegations.

Dr. Bawumia has previously affirmed his firm stance on LGBTQ+ issues, stating that such practices conflict with Ghanaian cultural values and are unacceptable under his leadership. “On this matter of LGBTQ, I want to say again without any equivocation that we will not allow it in Ghana. It is not going to be allowed. Our Bible says no, our Quran says no, and our people say no. So no. That is the answer,” he asserted earlier this year.

The Founder of the Believers Worship Centre, Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah, welcomed the Vice President’s assurances, commending his dedication to safeguarding Ghanaian traditions. The pastor promised to support Dr. Bawumia’s presidential ambitions through prayers, highlighting the significance of his pledges.

These declarations have elicited both support and criticism, reflecting the divisive nature of these legislative efforts. The anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-witchcraft bills have been endorsed by some religious and traditional leaders but have also attracted opposition from human rights groups, citing concerns over discrimination and potential human rights violations.