The Chair of the special seven-member committee, established by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to investigate the authenticity of the leaked tape involving the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Samuel Atta Akyea, has issued a warning to the Director of Operations of the Ghana Police Service, COP George Alex Mensah.
This warning comes in response to COP Alex Mensah’s comments about the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, during his appearance before the committee.
COP Alex Mensah described Dr. Dampare as the worst IGP in the history of the service and criticized his management of the police service. He reiterated these remarks when he appeared before the committee.
“What I said yesterday if you give me the chance today I will say so again, he is not managing the service well. For me, for the 31 years that I have been in the service, I can tell you he is the worst IGP we have had,” he stated.
In response, Atta Akyea cautioned COP Mensah, suggesting that the proceedings could become a trial of the entire police service if care is not taken.
COP Alex Mensah had previously acknowledged occasional professional disagreements with the IGP but denied any personal issues with him.
He was part of a conversation, along with senior police officers and former Northern Region Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, Daniel Bugri Naabu, which was recorded and hinted at a plot to remove the IGP before the 2024 elections.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has urged African leaders to prioritize addressing concerns related to citizen uprisings and civil disobedience over military coup d’état.
He made this appeal during a visit to the Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, Nana Kobina Nketia V, as part of Ghana’s 30th celebration of Parliamentary Democracy held in Takoradi.
In a report on August 10, 2023, Bagbin emphasized that citizen unrest and disobedience could have more significant repercussions than military interventions.
He pointed out that when people are dissatisfied with their government, they tend to rise against it.
Bagbin highlighted that the real challenge is not coups but rather the potential for civil unrest and uprisings.
Drawing from Ghana’s history of military coups, Bagbin illustrated how such actions often resulted in civilian casualties and widespread suffering.
He advocated for a shift towards more open and responsive governance, where elected officials actively listen to the concerns and voices of their constituents.
He underscored the importance of listening to the electorate, emphasizing that the misconception that elected officials inherently understand all issues hampers the development of democracy.
He pointed out the explosive situations occurring in neighboring countries due to such issues.
Bagbin’s call for prioritizing citizen concerns comes at a time when several countries in West and North Africa have been facing military takeovers.
Notably, a recent coup occurred in Niger, led by a group of presidential guards under the leadership of General Abdourahmane Tchiani.
The Ghanaian Parliament is expected to approve the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021, commonly referred to as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, by the conclusion of the year 2023.
According to a report from 3news.com, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, provided an affirmation of this commitment to a delegation representing the Coalition of Muslim Organizations of Ghana.
Led by Hajj Abdul Rahman, the delegation acknowledged and praised the speaker for his significant efforts in upholding and preserving Ghanaian values and traditions in the face of the LGBTQ issue.
In his acceptance statement, Alban Bagbin told the organization that parliament will pass the LGBTQ Bill by the end of 2023.
“Parliament will pass the anti-LGBTQ bill by the end of the year,” he said.
The Coalition conferred on the speaker the title Saifu_llah, which means the Sword of God, at Parliament House.
Alban Bagbin expressed appreciation to the group for the honour of conferring on him such a title.
Parliament debated the report on the bill by the Committee on Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs on Wednesday, July 5, 2023.
The report emphasised the issues brought up by both supporters and opponents of the law.
According to the report, those who are opposed to the bill claim that “LGBTQ+ activities form part of what the Constitution contemplates under Article 33 (5) about recognition of certian rights and freedoms that are inherent in a democracy and which is intended to secure the rights, freedoms, and dignity of the people.
“Consequently, any attempt to prescribe different treatment to different people on the basis of their sexual orientation and gender will be discriminatory and an affront to Articles 17(1) and (2) of the Constitution,” part of the report read.
The Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Alban Bagbin, has reaffirmed Parliament’s dedication to disability and inclusion in Ghana.
He emphasizes the importance of having physically challenged individuals as Members of Parliament and plans to establish a disability caucus by the end of the year.
“We need to have a number of physically challenged persons as Members of Parliament, it is one of the benchmarks for assessing parliaments in the world,” he said.
Members of the disability movement and the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) met with Mr. Bagbin to advocate for an official disability caucus in Parliament.
The GFD aims to enhance discussions on disability issues at the parliamentary level and promote the re-enactment of the disability law.
The GFD also highlights the need for Ghana to ratify the African Disability Protocol (ADP), a step toward addressing disability matters using African perspectives.
Dr. Emmanuel Marfo, Mr. Clement Apaak, and Ms. Darkoa Newman, interim leaders of the disability caucus of Parliament, pledge their unwavering support to the disability movement and advocate for the formalization of the disability caucus.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called on parliamentarians to remain steadfast in their beliefs and resist any changes that could undermine their principles.
He emphasised that parliamentarians should have the courage to openly declare their faith, even if it differs from public opinion.
During the inauguration of the International Catholic Legislation Network (ICLN)-Ghana, the Speaker of Parliament urged Catholic MPs, in particular, to stand firm in their faith and diligently fulfill their legislative responsibilities.
“We must stand firm against the winds of change that threaten to erode our principles. We must be vigilant against the voices that seek to silence our faith. We must be bold to proclaim our beliefs even when it is unpopular, but it is a task we must undertake for the sake of our nation, our people, and our souls,” expressnewsghana quoted him as having said.
The President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference(GCBC), Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between the church, experts and parliamentarians to facilitate debates that will take into consideration the pressing issues that affect the lives of citizens.
“Looking at the events happening all around us shows clearly that all is not well and the peace we seek seems to be eluding us.
“The happenings in South Sudan, Niger and the Sahelian Region to mention but few, demonstrate that the people are disillusioned, disappointed, frustrated and have lost faith, trust and confidence in the governance system of their countries and Ghana is not an exception.
“The Social Teaching has themes or principles which include life and dignity of human care, call to family, community and participation, rights and responsibility, options for the poor and vulnerable, dignity of work and rights of workers, solidarity and care for God’s creation,” he said.
The steering committee of the network is led by the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu, followed by the Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah Amoako (Vice Chairman).
The others are Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare (Secretary), Techiman North MP; Vincent Oppong Asamoah (Organiser), Dormaa West MP; and Patricia Appiagyei, MP for Asokwa.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed his disappointment with the government for not withdrawing taxes on sanitary pads during the mid-year budget review.
He had previously urged the government to take advantage of the review to eliminate these taxes, but the Finance Minister’s presentation on Monday did not include such a provision.
During a debate in Parliament, when the Member of Parliament for Sefwi Akontombra, Alex Tetteh Djornobuah, attempted to defend the imposition of taxes on sanitary pads, the Speaker reacted strongly to the matter.
He called on the government and future administrations to seriously reconsider the taxes on sanitary pads.
Bagbin highlighted that these taxes apply not only to imported sanitary pads but also to locally produced ones, including the raw materials used in production.
He emphasized the negative impact these taxes have on local businesses, with some even having to shut down due to the financial burden.
The Speaker voiced his strong opposition to taxing essential feminine hygiene products, stating that he would not support such taxation, especially on items used by women, including his own mother. He stressed that the state should address this matter seriously.
Bagbin also pointed out that in other countries, there are instances where sanitary pads are provided for free or where heavy taxes on such products have been removed. He called on all future governments to reconsider these taxes, asserting that they disproportionately affect the poor while sparing the wealthy.
This issue has drawn widespread attention, with many stakeholders advocating for the government to abolish taxes on sanitary pads.
Speaker Alban Bagbin has indicated that in the new Standing Orders yet to be implemented by Parliament, legislators will be mandated to recite the National pledge.
The Speaker made this known at the launch of the Citizen’s Bureau on Monday, July 31, 2023.
According to Speaker Bagbin, this will foster patriotism as the words of the national pledge will speak to lawmakers.
“We must demonstrate patriotism in what we do. That is why in the New Standing Orders, we have included the recitation of the national pledge.
Very important. Because if you are not patriotic, how can you lead. For him, it is imperative that leaders are true to the average Ghanaian they work for,” he said.
The objective of the Citizens Bureau is to facilitate engagements and information sharing between Parliament and Civil Society Organisations.
The Bureau is equally responsible for the formulation, implementation and reporting on Open Parliament Initiative under the Open Government Partnership.
Parliament has taken steps to holistically review the current Standing Orders which has been in operation since 2000.
It comes in response to a growing public demand for transparency and accountability, as well as a desire for Parliament to increase its oversight of the executive and other constitutional bodies.
Speaking to the Standing Orders Committee’s report on the review of the Standing Orders, MPs stated that Parliament, as a representative of the people, is thus obligated to respond to the call by adopting new rules to provide structural and procedural arrangements to deliver on its mandate effectively and efficiently.
Article 110(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, 1992 provides that “subject to the provisions of this Constitution, Parliament may, by standing orders, regulate its own procedure”.
The First Parliament of the Fourth Republic developed and adopted the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana which regulated the proceedings of the House and its Committees, as well as, the privileges and immunities of the House and Members until its revision in November 2000.
According to the MPs, the expansion in the frontiers of democracy and good governance worldwide, coupled with changing trends in legislative practices and procedures, have necessitated a holistic revision of the current Standing Orders.
Today, Friday July 28, 2023, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, will hold a comprehensive meeting with Members of Parliament ahead of next week’s mid-year budget review presentation.
The mid-year budget review is scheduled for Monday, July 31, 2023.
During this event, the government’s fiscal plans for the remainder of the year will be elucidated, and measures to ensure economic stability and growth will be addressed.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has encouraged lawmakers to actively participate and provide their inputs for the Mid-year budget review.
He emphasized that the review will primarily focus on the welfare of the country, particularly concerning financial matters and statutory funds, prior to the final presentation on Monday.
Bagbin urged absent colleagues to engage and contribute to the discussions with the Finance Minister.
The presentation date for the budget has experienced several reschedulings. Initially set for Tuesday, July 25, it was later rescheduled to Thursday, and now the final date is confirmed for July 31.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed concern over the public’s misinterpretation of the passage of the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill 2023.
On July 12, 2023, Parliament passed the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill 2023, introducing significant changes to the cultivation of cannabis for industrial and medicinal purposes.
The amended bill now grants the Ministry of Interior the authority to issue licenses for cannabis cultivation, thereby facilitating its usage for various beneficial applications.
However, Speaker Alban Bagbin clarified that the bill’s passage does not legalize the recreational use of cannabis.
He urged the police to take strict action against those who violate the law.
“Passage of the Bill does not connote or legalise the recreational use or smoking of cannabis therefore the House remains steadfast in its commitment to enforcing the law against the unlawful use of cannabis. We will continue to act in a manner that is in line with the Constitution and serves the public interest and advances our nation’s development and I want to employ all Members of Parliament and Ghanaians to share this information so as to dispel the misinformation and foster an informed dialogue on the matter.”
“I reiterate that the cultivation, manufacture, processing, distribution, sale, production, or use of narcotic plants, synthetic or semi-synthetic drugs without lawful authority remains an offence and is punishable by our laws and I, therefore, call on the law enforcement authorities to continue to investigate, prosecute and commit offenders to the sanctions of the law.”
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has appealed to Christendom to organize prayer conferences across all 16 regions of the country.
Stressing the significance of prayer in human affairs and its impact on the nation’s growth, especially in the current times, Bagbin believes this initiative will rejuvenate the minds and hearts of Ghanaians, leading to a better country.
During the Moral Vision and National Development Conference 2023, hosted by the Church of the Pentecost at its Convention Center in Gomoa Fetteh, Central Region, Bagbin praised the Church for accepting and spearheading his proposal.
“Last year, I had a conversation with a number of men of God and I did propose that there was urgent need for us to have prayer conferences from region to region in all the 16 regions.
The two-day conference, starting on July 26, 2023, and ending on July 27, 2023, brought together various stakeholders, including Former Presidents John Agyekum Kufour and John Dramani Mahama, Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, representatives from the National House of Chiefs, the Muslim community, and many others.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, has stated that the Minority caucus remains unconcerned about losing their parliamentary seats due to their ongoing boycott of parliamentary activities.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, ruled that the Minority’s continuous boycott, carried out without an official notification and approval, violates the house’s standing orders, potentially leading to the loss of their seats.
In an interview on Eyewitness News, Sam George affirms that the Minority will persist in their efforts to halt the persecution of its members.
“Akufo-Addo will go down in the history of this country as the worst president and most undemocratic person. And we must resist him at every turn if it means losing 137 seats in Parliament. They should declare the 137 seats vacant and let’s have a by-election. After all that will bring a lot of development to our 137 constituencies because that is their stalking.”
“The 137 of us have decided and are definite in our minds. We are not going to the chamber any day they take our colleagues to court and persecute them,” he indicated.
Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, dismisses Minority’s credibility.
“I want to tell the Ghanaian people that they shouldn’t take the Minority seriously at all unless they come to convince us why they will boycott the chamber. Today it was most embarrassing, all the private business about 99.9% of all the private businesses were advertised in their names. But I think that they should show maturity in these matters,” he said.
In a significant development, Habibu Iddrisu, the Member of Parliament for Tolon and Deputy Majority Whip, has voiced skepticism regarding the efficacy of the parliamentary committee formed by Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin. The committee’s purpose is to conduct an investigation into a leaked audio recording, purportedly disclosing a scheme to oust Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. Iddrisu’s doubts add a new layer of complexity to the ongoing controversy.
In a discussion on TV3’s Key Points on Saturday, Habibu Iddrisu criticized the decision to involve Parliament in the matter, stating that there are more appropriate agencies equipped to handle such investigations.
Habibu Iddrisu stated, “If that committee is set up and Parliament finishes its work then what? There are agencies that are equipped to handle this tape, not Parliament. From where I sit, I don’t see where it is going, it is just the politics we are seeing. This committee the speaker has formed, I don’t see where it will go. I don’t think Parliament was the right forum for this to be done. There is more to it than we have heard.”
On Thursday, July 13, Speaker Alban Bagbin ordered the formation of a seven-member committee to probe the leaked audio recording, which allegedly involves individuals plotting the removal of IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. The committee will consist of three members from each side of the House, along with one technical expert. The Speaker directed that the names of the three members from the Majority and Minority caucuses be announced within one week.
Background
GhanaWeb has intercepted a series of secret recordings exposing details of a plot by some top officials of the ruling New Patriotic Party and the Ghana Police Service to displace the current Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare from office ahead of the 2024 polls.
Apparently threatened by his leadership style and alleged affiliation with the opposition National Democratic Congress, the group who were recorded in a secret meeting concluded that the NPP’s “Breaking the 8” agenda will be impossible with Dampare at the helm of the police.
“Alhaji, my only problem… this current IGP if we do a mistake and take him to the elections, it will not help us. It will not help us at all and I will not mind if the position is not given to me but that man is changed; because he will not help us, he will not help us at all… he won’t help the party at all.
“I know there are others who are also good for this position, if I don’t get and this man is changed and those people that we think they are our men get (it is ok) … Because we need to break this 8. That is important, we need to break the 8… Because I wouldn’t want doctor to become the flagbearer and then we lose the elections… ” one of the senior officers told the senior NPP member who is believed to be a former regional chairman of the party and now a traditional ruler.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has instructed the formation of a special committee comprising seven members to conduct an inquiry into the leaked audio discussing plans to remove Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare.
The Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah presenting the request in Parliament said “Mr. Speaker that I submit this statement for your kind attention seeking to invoke the appropriate Standing Orders of the House and other relevant legislation, for a bi-partisan investigation either by a special committee of the House, or the Committee on Defence and Interior, into this all-important matter.”
The terms of reference of this investigation will be to establish the following:
1. The authenticity of the leaked audio recording
2. Investigate the conspiracy to remove the current Inspector-General of Police
3. Investigate any other matter contained in the audio recording
4. Recommend sanctions to persons found culpable where appropriate
5. Make recommendations for reforms where necessary
6. Make such other recommendations and consequential orders as the committee may deem appropriate.
“Right Honourable Speaker, I hereby submit for your kind consideration,” lawmaker concluded.
In response the Speaker asked if there are any comments from member of the house since they had response “I don’t know if you still have further comments if not I concede and direct that a special committee be established to investigate this matter.”
Mr. Bagbin said the Committee must go beyond defense and interior.
“We need some of you who are good in IT and other areas to submit your talents and skills to the Committee for this work to be done,” he added.
CEO of the Hempire Association of Ghana, Nana Kweku Agyemang, has highlighted that the cultivation of industrial cannabis holds promise in remedying the presence of hazardous chemicals resulting from illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as ‘Galamsey’, on farmlands.
The comment by the CEO is on the back of the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill 2023, which was passed on July 12, 2023 in parliament, to grant the Ministry for the Interior the authority to issue licenses for the cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes.
According to him, cultivation of cannabis along the banks of water bodies can also contribute to the purification of rivers, allowing for domestic use of the water once again.
“Then also, it is good for the environment because at the moment we are clamouring to deal with galamsey and there are farmers sitting there looking at lands they would previously pay peanuts for, and those lands have been poisoned with mercury and other toxic chemicals.
“Well, I wish to inform you that when we cultivate industrial hemp on that land, those lands would be reclaimed because the industrial cannabis will absorb all the toxins over a period of time and the farmers will be able to go back to those farmlands and start cultivating high-value crops,” he said.
He added that “The same is true with our water bodies, the cultivation of industrial cannabis in those water bodies and the banks will clean up those water bodies so that we can return to them and use them in our everyday day domestic lives.”
The CEO also highlighted some health benefits that come with the cultivation of industrial cannabis.
“In medication, there are a lot of young people suffering from epilepsy and the oil from cannabis is something that can be used for all those features once and for all,” he added.
Prior to the passage, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, stated that Ghana was losing millions of dollars due to the lack of a cannabis cultivation license.
Speaker Bagbin made these remarks following the presentation and first reading of the Narcotics Regulation Commission Amendment Bill, 2023, on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, July 6.
The Supreme Court had previously ruled that the law granting licenses to grow cannabis, popularly known as ‘wee,’ was unconstitutional because there was no debate in Parliament prior to its passage into law, as required by Article 106 (5) (6) of the 1992 Constitution.
However, the Speaker, who stated that the country was losing out as a result of this decision, stated that he expressed his displeasure with the ruling to the justices of the apex court in a meeting and urged them to consult Parliament for proper briefings whenever such decisions are made.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has rebuked the Minority caucusfor boycotting Parliamentary proceedings without official permission, saying that this violates the Standing Orders of the house.
The Standing Orders of Parliament stipulate that a Member of Parliament who is absent for 15 sittings without the Speaker’s permission and without a valid reason must vacate their seat.
The Speaker made this remark in response to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, who raised concerns about the absence of Minority representation in the Votes and Proceedings of Parliament. The Speaker said such a gesture was unacceptable.
The Speaker also noted that some MPs had been marked as absent without permission, and there were questions about the meanings of “walk-out” and “boycott”.
“Some MPs have been captured for being absent without permission, some concerns have been raised on the definition of walk-out and boycott. The deputy Minority Whip has raised a very serious matter on the fact that from his knowledge, some members were not present yesterday, but they have been captured as present, as it’s an indictment on the officers of Parliament,” he said.
The Speaker further stressed the importance of attendance, citing Article 97 (1C) as the guiding principle for the presence of members in the house.
He explained that attending or not attending was a personal choice, but when a member chose not to attend, depending on their actions, they could be marked as absent or absent with permission.
“On the issue of attendance, Article 97 (1C) is very clear and that is what guides attendance of the house. So you can choose to attend or choose not to attend. When you refuse to attend, depending on your own action, you could be marked as absent or absent with permission. The burden now falls on the group to show evidence that my good self has granted you permission to absent yourselves in writing, not verbally; that any time a colleague of yours wants to attend court proceedings, you will solidarize with that colleague and that you will be absent so that the official report will capture that”, he explained.
This is not the first time that the Minority in Parliament has boycotted business activities in solidarity with James Gyakye Quayson, the Member of Parliament for Assin North, who is facing trial over his dual citizenship.
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban S.K. Bagbin, has stressed the urgent need for the Ga Traditional Council to revive unity and assert its authority in governance and nation-building.
Recognizing the Ga State’s historical significance as a hub for leaders and scholars, the Speaker believes that a united front and strong values will serve the best interests of the Ga community.
During a courtesy visit by representatives of the Ga Traditional Council, led by the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Henry Quartey, the Speaker was officially informed of the passing of Naa Dedei Omaedru III, the Ga Mashie Queen Mother.
Addressing the challenges faced by the Ga-Dangbe Community, the Speaker advised the council to utilize this occasion to educate the younger generation about the Queen Mother’s remarkable contributions and elevate Ga culture.
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban S.K. Bagbin, expressed concerns about the declining influence of the Ga State in the country’s culture and governance despite its role as the capital’s host. He acknowledged that the Ga people have been marginalized over time.
Paying tribute to the late Queen Mother, Rt. Hon. Bagbin praised her as a unifier and champion of the Ga State and Ga-Dangbe community. He urged the council to gather more information about her early years, contributions to Ga community development, and the lasting impact she made.
The Speaker believed that documenting this information would serve as a historical reference book, preserving Ga culture, values, and customs while educating both Ga people and other readers.
He also highlighted the importance of empowering women, known for their significant role in the Ga tribe, by strengthening women’s initiatives and encouraging their leadership and strategic involvement.
Furthermore, Rt. Hon. Bagbin stressed the need to reshape the image of the Ga-Dangbe community as a powerful traditional group in Ghana and West Africa.
He emphasized the importance of telling their story accurately and preserving their cultural history to prevent distortion by others.
On July 12, 2023, Ghana’s Parliament passed the Narcotics Control Commission Amendment Bill, granting the Minister for the Interior the power to issue licenses for industrial cannabis cultivation.
Regarding the Supreme Court’s previous ruling on the unconstitutionality of a clause in the bill, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin clarified that Parliament was not reviewing the decision but rather rectifying an error made by the Supreme Court.
The Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, presented and initiated the first reading of the Narcotics Regulation Commission Amendment Bill, 2023, in Parliament on July 6.
The Supreme Court invalidated the law granting licenses for cannabis cultivation, commonly known as ‘wee’, due to a lack of parliamentary debate as required by Article 106 (5) (6) of the 1992 Constitution.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the ruling, the Speaker highlighted the country’s missed opportunities and revealed that he had conveyed his displeasure during a meeting with the Supreme Court justices.
He urged the court to consult Parliament for comprehensive briefings when making such decisions.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has stated that the Minority caucus boycotting Parliamentary business without a formal notice to that effect is a violation of the House’s Standing Orders.
The Standing Orders of Parliament state that a Member of Parliament must leave his or her seat if he or she has been absent for 15 sittings without the Speaker’s consent and is unable to provide an acceptable explanation.
The Speaker determined that the gesture is not warranted in response to concerns voiced by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, concerning the representation of the minority being absent without authorization in the Votes and Proceedings of Parliament.
“Some MPs have been captured for being absent without permission, some concerns have been raised on the definition of walk-out and boycott. The deputy Minority Whip has raised a very serious matter on the fact that from his knowledge, some members were not present yesterday, but they have been captured as present, as it’s an indictment on the officers of Parliament.”
He added, “On the issue of attendance, Article 97 (1C) is very clear and that is what guides attendance of the house. So you can choose to attend or choose not to attend. When you refuse to attend, depending on your own action, you could be marked as absent or absent with permission. The burden now falls on the group to show evidence that my good self has granted you permission to absent yourselves in writing, not verbally; that any time a colleague of yours wants to attend court proceedings, you will solidarize with that colleague and that you will be absent so that the official report will capture that”.
On July 11, the Minority in Parliament once again boycotted business activity in Parliament in favor of the prosecution of Assin North MP James Gyakye Quayson.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has stated that the Parliament will not be intimidated in its efforts to enact the Promotion of Proper Sexual Human Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill (Anti-LGBT Bill).
The bill, which is now being discussed in Parliament, seeks to make actions involving LGBTQ people illegal.
The bill is just and fair, Mr. Bagbin said during a visit from several traditional leaders.such as extortion, invasion of privacy, and, in the most severe circumstances, making death threats.
“Human rights are supposed to edify, they are meant to add value to your life, they are meant to make your life enjoyable, make you healthy, make you live longer, better lives and anything to the contrary cannot be a right.
“I am very clear in my mind that what we are doing is the right thing, it is fair, and it is just and it is meant to keep the world everlasting and that is what God created the world for.”
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has summoned the Ministers of Education, Agriculture, and Finance; Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Bryan Acheampong, and Ken Ofori-Atta.
They are required to appear before the House and provide an explanation regarding the government’s indebtedness to the National Food Suppliers Association (NAFSA).
This directive comes in response to a plea made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu.
Ablakwa urged the House to invite the ministers to brief them on the government’s plans for settling a debt of over GH¢270 million owed to the food suppliers.
In light of the situation, the food suppliers have resorted to picketing outside the office of the Buffer Stock Company, demanding payment for their services.
“As the leader of this House, it is important that I keep drawing your attention as the representatives of the people so that you can properly represent the interests of your constituents,” Bagbin said.
“Now this is where we are. So I agree that the Business Committee should schedule for the three ministers to appear before the House. The three ministers are the Ministers of Finance, Food and Agriculture, and Education. They will tell us why the challenge,” Bagbin said.
The Speaker said this would enable the House to assist the Executive in addressing such challenges, adding that “that is why we are establishing a committee on ways and means.”
The government has voiced its opinion that the Supreme Court’s decision to strike out provisions in the Narcotic Control Commission Act, which permitted the cultivation of certain types of cannabis for medicinal and industrial uses, is a significant error.
Previously, the Supreme Court had ruled in favor of an applicant who invoked the court’s original jurisdiction to strike down the provision, citing a violation of Article 106 of the 1992 Constitution.
The Office of the Attorney-General filed a review application, but it was ultimately dismissed in a 5-4 decision.
During discussions on amending the Narcotic Control Commission Act, the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, argued that the proposed amendment does not aim to legalize recreational cannabis use.
Instead, it seeks to establish a framework for granting special licenses for cannabis production.
“To therefore say that Section 43 is unconstitutional, was in my humble opinion a grievous error. However, because we need to be in tandem with the international movement, and also because we consider this to be a public health issue and benefit of industrial as well as economic value, this amendment is necessary to let us put back what has been in my view declared unconstitutional,” Mr. Dery argued.
In response to the Supreme Court’s ruling, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, criticized it as improper.
As a result, he referred the Narcotics Control Commission amendment bill to the Defense and Interior Committee for thorough evaluation.
He specifically instructed the committee to submit their report within the next seven days.
“I think the country is losing a lot as a result of this decision. We need to work expeditiously to rectify the wrong. I hope that the three arms of government will work together and respect each other. In cases of doubt, it is important to consult the other arm before giving finality to whatever decision the other arms want to take.
“I don’t think that it is proper for the judiciary, without knowing how we conduct our business here, to really go into how we conduct our business and make such an important decision without consulting the House. That is improper,” the Speaker of Parliament said.
A lecturer at the University of Georgia, Dr. Fatima Mohammed, has voiced dissatisfaction over the Members of Parliaments’ (MPs) stance on the LGBTQ law, which has been discussed and given a second reading in the House.
This comes after Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, urged House opponents of the anti-gay measure to stand up and be counted.
He asked the question following the presentation of the committee report on the bill to the house for discussion by Mr. Anyimadu Antwi, chairman of the Committee on Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs.
As the bill was being heard for the second time in the House, religious leaders from the Christian and Muslim communities stormed the Parliament.
Mr. Bagbin however added that considering the numbers in the house on Wednesday July 5, 2023 he will still open the floor for the debate.
Speaking to the media the news the College of Journalism and Mass Communication lecturer said human rights are not something you can pick and choose what you want.
“It is really heartbreaking because looking at our Parliament we know a lot of Parliamentarians are lawyers and they know what human rights are and they understand what it means to go after the rights of individuals are. So it is sad to hear that this bill is going forward and that the rights of LGBTQ rights are going to be infringed upon. They cannot live in dignity in their own country.
“We are talking about the rights of individuals here, we are talking about protecting the right to live in freedom and in dignity and the right to live and regard as human beings in their own country. These are people from all parts of the country and who are members of the society,” Dr. Fatima stated.
She continued: “So to criminalize their very existence is just disappointing and I am actually very sad that Parliamentarians who initially opposed the bill are currently in support of it. Of-course when the first version of the bill came out in 2021 it was actually described by media organizations across the world as the most homophobic bill that will ever see the light of day in the entire world.”
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called upon Members of Parliament (MPs) to openly express their stance on the Promotion of Proper Sexual Human Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, anti LGBQT bill, during the parliamentary session.
This request follows a statement made by Andy Appiah Kubi, the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North and a member of the Majority Caucus.
In his speech on the bill, Kubi declared that all MPs unanimously support the proposed legislation.
Alban Bagbin encouraged those who oppose the bill to articulate their positions and put forward any suggestions they may have during the session.
“Any member who disagrees with the submission just made by Andy Appiah Kubi that all the 275 are in support of the bill, anybody who is not in support, be on your feet and I will recognise you.”
“Since all members are in support of the bill, I will not gag the House and I will give the House the opportunity to do a proper amendment to the bill.
Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, has been sworn in for the second time as MP for his constituency in a momentous event that seems to have marked the climax of a fierce battle for his seat in Parliament.
The memorable occasion took place on July 4, 2023, in Parliament. Speaker Alban Bagbin led Mr Quayson to swear both the Oath of Allegiance, which affirms his loyalty to the Republic of Ghana, and the Oath of Member of Parliament, which specifically relates to his role as a legislator.
Key members of the party, including former President John Dramani Mahama, who is also the flagbearer of the party, National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, General Secretary Fiifi Kwetey, running mate for John Dramani Mahama in the 2020 election Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Mr Joshua Alabi and others, were all present to grace the occasion.
His fellow MPs on the Minority side, all clad in white, were also present in their numbers to support Mr Quayson, who has become the party’s ‘darling boy’ following the matters that have arisen over his citizenship. Parliament reverberated with jubilation as the Minority MPs cheered him on while he took the oath of office.
However, most MPs on the Majority side (i.e. NPP MPs) did not turn up for the event. Their absence highlights the party’s position on the MP’s re-election while still entangled in a legal battle over his citizenship.
His swearing-in gives him an opportunity to fully resume his parliamentary duties, despite the ongoing legal tussle spewing from his just ended dual citizenship case.
For the past two years, Mr Quayson has been in court standing trial for possessing dual citizenship. The court case was triggered by one Richard Takyi-Mensah, a teacher and a resident of Yamoransa in the Central Region, who sued the MP for failing to renounce his Canadian citizenship at the time he picked nomination forms to contest the Assin North Constituency election in 2020.
The Supreme court by a majority decision of 5-2 on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, ordered the MP to stop holding himself as a lawmaker following a Cape Coast High Court’s earlier ruling that James Gyakye Quayson was not eligible to contest December 7, 2020, Parliamentary Elections because he bore dual citizenship before picking nomination forms from the Electoral Commission, Ghana.
The legal team of the embattled MP subsequently filed for a review of the Supreme Court ruling that stopped him from carrying himself as a lawmaker.
However, on May 18, 2023, the Supreme Court directed Parliament to expunge him from their records. This led to a by-election which he eventually won.
Meanwhile, the MP is still in court facing charges of perjury and deceiving a public officer after the Supreme Court nullified his election as MP for Assin North for holding Canadian citizenship and being a Ghanaian when he filed his nomination to contest the election in 2020.
Ahead of James Gyakye Quayson‘s swearing-in as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North, all members of the minority party in parliament arrived at the house dressed in white attire, symbolizing their collective support.
At 9:50 am, MPs on the Minority side had already gathered in the parliamentary chamber in preparation for the upcoming ceremony.
Today, July 4, 2023, the Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana, Alban Bagbin, is scheduled to administer the oath of office to James Gyakye Quayson, who was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Assin North Constituency.
Following the by-election held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, Gyakye Quayson emerged victorious as the winner in the Assin North constituency.
Based on the Electoral Commission’s official announcement, James Gyakye Quayson secured a total of 17,245 votes, which accounted for 57.56% of the overall votes cast during the election.
Charles Opoku, the candidate from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), emerged as the closest competitor to James Gyakye Quayson, receiving a total of 12,630 votes, representing 42.15% of the total votes cast.
Bernice Enyonam Sefenu, the candidate from the Liberal Party Ghana (LPG), obtained a total of 87 votes, accounting for 0.29% of the total votes counted.
The by-election in Assin North was conducted to fill the parliamentary seat that remained vacant due to a legal dispute questioning James Gyakye Quayson’s eligibility to hold office, primarily due to concerns regarding his dual citizenship status.
Parliament is expected to deliberate on the Ghanaian Family Values Bill, also known as the anti-LGBT bill, this week.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, had instructed the House to conduct the second reading of the bill last week, but the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee was not present.
The Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, made this clear last Friday, June 30, 2023.
The bill aims to outlaw LGBTQ+ and its associated acts, as well as any propaganda, advocacy, or promotion of LGBT and related activities.
It also aims to protect and support children, as well as anyone who has been wrongly accused or victimized as a result of LGBTQ+ or related activities.
On June 27, when the MPs were supposed to discuss the topic, the House was vacant because the bulk of MPs from both political parties were in Assin North for the by-election.
“We had it last week, but we couldn’t make any progress because the chairman and the ranking member had travelled out. We hope that we will make some progress within this week when the Speaker and the ranking member come. We will put our heads together and locate the bill,” Osei Kyei-Mensah Bonsu said.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has accused finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta of refusing to listen to his alternative suggestions for raising revenue without imposing the controversial e-levy.
The e-levy bill, which was passed by parliament on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, will introduce a 1.5 percent tax on electronic money transfers and transactions. The government has said the move will help address problems from unemployment to Ghana’s high public debt.
However, the bill faced significant opposition, with seven out of ten people expressing their disapproval of the levy, according to the Afrobarometer Survey.
The minority group in parliament also staged a walkout before the bill was passed, claiming it would hurt the poor and undermine the digital economy.
Mr Bagbin said he had suggested several ways for the finance minister to generate revenue by including more people in the informal sector in the tax net. He said a large proportion of individuals in the informal sector of the economy are not captured in the tax system due to a lack of documentation, so the government is unable to tax them.
During a meeting with the management of Media General in Accra on Thursday, June 29, Mr Bagbin said “I made it known to the finance minister long ago that there are so many areas where we can raise revenue, not e-levy. But if you wanted to use e-levy, let us start from zero point something percent and then go up. You have an informal economy where a large percentage of the people are outside the tax net. Because of no documentation, you will never know their income. There are things that you have to do to bring them into the formal sector. I suggested to him the lottery tax.”
Lottery tax, compulsory health insurance for people flying into the country, and taxing the use of narcotics, particularly “weed”, were among the sources of revenue suggested by Mr Bagbin.
He explained “The lottery tax is very simple; you use tax receipt numbers to play the lotto, and every week, one tax receipt number will win, and you can give a pickup to the person. So everybody now comes in because the person wants to win a pickup, and so they start issuing receipts.”
He added “Look at insurance; there are countries that have moved on now and said any person flying into their country has to take medical insurance, and that is factored into your ticket. So in case you land and there is a problem, they just rush you to the hospital and treat you because you are insured. Nigeria and the rest have taken that; that is another way of raising revenue.”
He also pointed out “Look at the gaming commission; there is a lot of money in the gaming sector, but you are not taxing them; many countries are taxing it, and they are getting a lot of revenue.”
Another source of revenue Mr Bagbin suggested was taxing the use of narcotics; “weed”, which has become a major component in pharmaceutical products recently. He said “One of the areas is narcotics, weed because they use it in pharmaceuticals. Now you go for a surgical operation, and most of the things they inject you with are from weed; the place becomes numb so when they cut you don’t feel anything at all.”
He maintained that these suggestions have been implemented in countries such as Malaysia among others where they have recorded over 500 percent increase in revenue. He claimed that he discussed these ideas with Mr Ofori-Atta but Mr Ofori-Atta did not listen.
He said “We tried to get the finance minister to understand this thing but he would not understand it. We are looking more outside than inside [for revenue].”
Source: The Independent Ghana | Abigail Twumwaa Ampofo
Prior to the implementation of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, engaged in discussions with the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, regarding his strategy to include the informal sector in the country’s tax system.
According to Bagbin, the E-Levy was not the most optimal approach for ensuring tax compliance from the informal sector.
However, he suggested a tax rate below zero percent, as the majority of individuals in this category were the specific target of the finance minister.
During a meeting with Media General’s management in Accra on June 29, 2023, the Speaker of Parliament expressed that implementing a lottery tax could be an alternative method for the government to generate additional revenue for the state.
He elaborated that the lottery tax would involve customers using tax receipt numbers to participate in lotto games.
“I made it known to the Finance Minister long ago that there are so many areas where we can raise revenue, not E-Levy. But if you wanted to use e-levy, let us start from zero point something percent and then go up. You have an informal economy where a large percentage of the people are outside the tax net. Because of no documentation, you will never know their income, there are things that you have to do to bring them to the formal sector. I suggested to him the lottery tax,” Alban Bagbin said.
He added that, “The lottery tax is very simple, you use tax receipt numbers to play the lotto and every week, one tax receipt number will win and you can give a pickup to the person. So everybody now comes in because the person wants to win a pickup and so they start issuing receipts.”
“And so they formalize the informal businesses. Countries have done it, Malaysia and the rest and they jumped over 500 percent increase in revenue. I discussed this with the Minister,” the Speaker of Parliament highlighted.
Additionally, Bagbin pointed out that the government could explore other revenue-generating areas such as insurance and narcotics.
The government introduced the E-Levy as part of its efforts to enhance domestic revenue mobilization. However, in response to various criticisms, the E-Levy tax rate was reduced from 1.5% to 1%.
As per data from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Electronic Transfer Levy generated GH¢246.9 million in revenue, contributing 11 percent to the projected GH¢2.24 billion for the year.
Since its implementation in May 2022, the E-Levy had accumulated a total revenue of GH¢861.47 million by March 2023.
The winner of the Assin North by-election in Ghana, James Gyakye Quayson, will be sworn in as the Member of Parliament (MP) on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin.
Quayson secured victory in the by-election held on June 27, 2023, with a total of 17,245 votes, constituting 57.56% of the total votes cast. His closest competitor, Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), received 12,630 votes, representing 42.15% of the votes.
The Assin North by-election was conducted following a legal dispute over Quayson’s eligibility to hold office due to concerns about his dual citizenship. Quayson’s successful election fills the parliamentary seat that had remained vacant during the legal proceedings.
Bernice Enyonam Sefenu of the Liberal Party Ghana (LPG) received 87 votes, accounting for 0.29% of the overall vote count.
During the Investiture and Induction Service of the leadership of the Apostolic Church-Ghana (TAC-GH), the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban Bagbin, delivered a keynote address wherein he urged religious leaders, civil society organizations, and traditional authorities to actively engage in the daily governance of the nation, emphasizing that politicians alone cannot single-handedly develop the country.
The Speaker of Parliament emphasised the importance of embracing each day with a meaningful purpose, spreading kindness, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
He urged everyone to value the blessings of waking up healthy and to find joy in God’s grace.
The Speaker expressed concern over the negative reputation that leaders, whether political, traditional, or religious, have garnered for themselves personal wealth at the expense of their organisations or nations.
He stressed the importance of electing leaders driven by merit and a commitment to improving social, economic, and human resources.
Speaker Bagbin urged religious leaders, including those in the church, to embrace their civic responsibility and actively engage in national and political matters. He highlighted the negative consequences of religious disengagement from these issues, such as corruption, unemployment, and illegal activities.
In response to these challenges, Speaker Bagbin introduced the Citizens Bureau, a project aimed at enhancing citizens’ participation in the work of parliament. He encouraged leaders from civil society organisations, religious bodies, and traditional institutions to collaborate closely with the bureau to address national issues effectively.
Also, Speaker Bagbin called on the newly elected leaders of the Apostolic Church-Ghana (TAC-GH) to adhere to the core tenets of the church and prioritise self-sacrificial love, moral uprightness, excellence, and a strong desire to serve and improve society.
In conclusion, he emphasised that the responsibility of TAC-GH’s progress lies not only with the leadership but with the entire membership, urging everyone to play an active role in the church’s mission.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin is unhappy about an Accra High Court decision to hear James Gyakye Quayson‘s on a daily basis, describing it as “selective.”
He believes that it is not right for the court to put Assin North MP-elect James Gyakye Quayson through a daily trial following the perjury and forgery charges brought against him by the state.
Speaking in an interview with Graphic Online, he said the decision to hold the trial daily seems selective, especially since no case has been taken through such a process.
The Speaker was speaking during a visit to the office of Graphic Communications Group Limited (GCGL) in Accra to meet with management and the editorial staff.
The visit is aligned with the Speaker’s desire to strengthen Parliament-Media Relations, and it is his first to a media organisation since he was elected Speaker on January 7, 2021.
“What we are doing is rule by law, not rule of law, and I think that we should move away from that. For democracy to succeed, the pillar is the rule of law. I tell them, and I tell the judges, it is not right. If it is done to everybody, I have no problem, but if it is done selectively, I have a problem,” Mr Bagbin said.
He added that “the law is not the centre of democracy, that is one of the errors in our constitution. Read through our constitution and you’ll see the law is a respecter of so many people. So many people in Ghana are above the law. You can’t have democracy [with that], and so we need to work at it seriously.”
The speaker called on the public to, as a result, support the need for a constitutional review emphasizing that “it is something we must take up.”
This comes after an Accra High Court presided over by Justice Mary Yanzuh ruled that the trial of the opposition National Democratic NDC’s James Gyakye Quayson will be heard on daily basis starting from July 4, 2023.
The court ruled that its June 16 order announcing this arrangement was within the law and a case for a review had not been made.
The decision was protested by many including the MP-elect’s legal team.
However, the court maintained that “adjournments are at the discretion of the court and not the convenience of parties. The order of this court was clearly in line with the law. Nowhere was it demonstrated that the order was contrary to law.”
“His rights have not been violated by the court for refusing not to give him time to campaign. Mere refusal of the court does not constitute denial of right to fair trial,” the judge stated.
Mr Quayson is being tried for forgery and perjury after he was charged by the Attorney-General’s Office.
He is also accused of deceiving a public officer and knowingly making a false declaration when he filed nominations to contest in the 2020 election when he had not renounced his Canadian citizenship.
Background
This followed a Supreme Court ruling that the Electoral Commission acted unconstitutionally in allowing Mr Quayson to contest the 2020 parliamentary election without proof of him renouncing his Canadian Citizenship.
The apex court in its ruling ordered parliament to expunge James Gyakye Quayson’s name from its records as a Member of Parliament. It further declared that his election was unconstitutional, null and void and of no effect. His swearing-in was equally declared to be unconstitutional.
Following the ruling, his seat was declared vacant and a by-election was held Tuesday, on June 27.
Mr Gyalye Quayson won the by-elections with 17,245 votes representing 57.56% of valid votes.
His main rival, Charles Opoku of the New Patriotic Party polled 12,630 or 42.15% of valid votes to place second, while Liberal Party of Ghana’s Bernice Enam Sefanu polled only 87 votes or 0.29%.
Speaking to JoyNews about his victory, Mr Gyakye Quayson said the electorates in his constituency cannot be swayed by the governing New Patriotic Party.
“When it comes to the people of Assin North, nothing can break us apart. And if they (NDC) want to go for a by-election 10 times, I will win 10 times. I can assure you that.
“They are not in for money, they are in for real development and what I can say is that I am the first gentleman of Assin North now,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, he has filed a motion on notice at the High Court for stay of proceedings, pending an appeal.
The Budget bill, which tries to give Members of Parliament (MPs) a say in what goes into the national budget, is being pushed for quick passage by the Speaker of the House, Alban Sumana Bagbin.
According to Mr. Bagbin, the bill will force the administration to take action on important national concerns by integrating parliament in the process of creating the national budget, whereby priority are assigned to various sectors with regard to allocations.
“This is a very important subject matter and I believe that one of the ways we could support national leadership to find solution, is for us to pass the Budget Act,” he said.
He said every rainy season parts of the country experience flooding that leads to loss of lives and property, yet successive governments have failed to find a lasting solution to this problem – adding that the Budget bill is critical to prioritising and addressing some of the country’s social issues, including ending the perennial flooding recorded during rainy seasons.
“Since I entered parliament in 1993, we have had so many statements of this nature (flooding) almost every year and we are not finding solutions to the problem; and I think it starts from the priority-setting. Parliament must be involved at that stage, not wait until a month to end of the year when the budget is thrust upon you and you have no time even by the constitutional provisions to talk about increasing the allocations – the provisions that have been made to various sector.
“I think we have to pass the Budget Act so that we have early entry at the time of discussions on the budget, including the planning and priority-setting,” the Speaker emphasised.
His remarks come on the back of comments by the MP for Adaklu, Kwame Governs Agbodza, on the floor of parliament about floods in some parts of Accra resulting from last week Wednesday’s downpour.
News reports suggest that, so far, a lady and her two children are missing at Bortianor-Ngleshie Amamfrom due to the floods – which also led to other residents being injured and some properties damaged.
Similarly, in March this year two people lost their lives in the same area due to flooding.
In his statement, Mr. Agbodza – who is also the Minority Chief Whip – commiserated with the area’s MP and called on the Minister for Works and Housing to apprise the House [parliament] on steps his ministry is taking to avert further damage and loss of lives as the rains continue.
“For the past several lyyears, there has not been any major desilting of drains in Accra. As a House and as a country, we need to take this very serious and see what we can do to at least minimise the damage that is happening in these areas.
“It is not beyond the capability of parliament to help the relevant agencies to finance needed interventions to save lives. Desilting gutters or the major drains in Accra cannot be something beyond the funding of government with the approval of parliament,” he noted.
He added: “We would like to see what government is going to do when the mid-year budget comes to the House”.
Budget bill
The Budget bill seeks to set a budget office in parliament that enables MPs to scrutinise the country’s national budget and economic policy.
Currently, the only role the legislature plays in the budget process is to either approve or disapprove government’s budget when it is presented before the House by the Minister of Finance.
Earlier this month, when parliament reconvened from break, leadership of both sides of the house told the press corps that the Budget bill is among those listed on the meeting’s agenda.
Finance, Works and Housing Minister to brief House
The Speaker has since directed that the Minister responsible for Works and Housing and the Finance Minster be programmed by the Business Committee to brief the House on actions being taken to address the recurrent flooding menace.
In efforts to eliminate school absenteeism and other challenges associated with girls not being able to afford sanitary pads during menstruation, the Women’s Wing of Socialist Forum Ghana has presented a petition to Parliament to expedite actions on scrapping 20 per cent import tax on sanitary pads.
“This is to eliminate school absenteeism associated with the inability to afford sanitary pads among schoolgirls…’’
It also demanded “the allocation of funding for public education and information on the nature of menstruation and its role in female health and fertility and the reproduction of humanity.”
The petition was presented to the Speaker of Parliament, Mr Algban Babgin, after a closed-door meeting with him.
Ms Loretta Naa Dei Ashi, the Women’s Organizer, Socialist Movement Ghana, speaking to the media, said they expected the abolishment of the tax to reflect in the 2024 budget and financial statement.
“The outcome we are looking for is that taxes should be scrapped, all taxes on sanitary pads should be removed, we are close to November and we expect the Finance Mnister to include it in the budget, ‘’ she stated.
Mrs Mildred Asante, a member of the group, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that she was compelled to spend 10 per cent of her monthly income on sanitary pads.
The situation, she complained, was a major constraint on her and her three daughters.
Ms. Nyarkoa Annobell, a student at the University of Education Winneba, lamented how she had to sacrifice her money for feeding on campus to buy sanitary pads.
She said some of her colleagues had resorted to the use of rugs and textiles due to their inability to afford sanitary pads.
The Speaker of Parliament assured the Group that plans were far advanced to address the situation.
He indicated that he had already engaged the relevant committees, particularly the committee of Finance and Gender on the subject.
The Group, before presenting the petition to Parliament, marched from the Ridge Roundabout with placards calling for the scrapping of the tax.
TheGhana Chamber of Construction Industries (GhCCI) has stated that the difficulties experienced by contractors have been made worse by the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Atta.
Cocoa road contractors’ have petitioned Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin over Ghana COCOBOD’s refusal to pay their four billion Cedis debt.
The aggrieved contractors say the delay has resulted in some members losing valuable properties, while others have developed complicated health conditions.
They have therefore givenCOCOBOD 21 day’s ultimatum to meet their demands.
Speaking on Starr Today with Emmanul Agyabeng Wednesday the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Chamber of Construction Industries, Emmanuel Cherry stated that its better the Road Minister keeps mute if there is nothing better for contractors.
“The Minister for Roads and Highways Honorable Kwasi Amoako-Atta made a specific declaration that before 31st December 2022 contractors we will be paid, that was the statement he released. But let’s ask ourselves this question: has he been able to honor that? That is a question hanging on his integrity.
“So it’s better he doesn’t come out to say anything at all. Because anytime he comes out to make declarations and nothing happens you have endangered the little thing that contractors enjoy with their service providers and financial institution and opens them up to different attacks and ridicule,” Mr. Cherry stated.
He continued: “Because immediately that happens they also come on contractors thinking they have been paid so they need their money. So these are some of the challenges. So honorable Amoako Atta has worsened the plight of contractors as we see in this country.”
The Public Affairs Directorate of Parliament has refuted reports suggesting an endorsement by Speaker Alban Bagbin for Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s primaries.
During a courtesy call on the Overlord of Gonja, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunutu Jewu Soale, at his residence in Damongo, the Speaker revealed the possibility of Ghanaians having to choose between two northerners to lead the country in the 2024 election.
“This is the time that the two main parties in Ghana are both deciding that the flagbearers will be our sons from the North. What I plead with all of you is for us to accept our differences and see how we can come together to prepare to receive the development that is coming our way.”
This statement, Parliament said has been misconstrued.
According to Parliament’s Public Affairs Directorate, although the Speaker made reference to the two politicians at the said event, it was not an exercise in prediction.
The Speaker is said to have suggested that what should be of interest to the people in northern Ghana, in which context he was speaking, is that they will be well represented at the apex of Ghana’s political structure, and that should be a source of pride to them.
“The Rt. Hon. Speaker explained that despite political differences, we are one people with a common destiny. Our common goal therefore should be to work towards the common good of all Ghanaians, irrespective of our political differences,” a statement from Parliament noted.
The Speaker of Parliament,Alban Bagbin, has advised constituents who frequently change their Members of Parliament (MPs), to desist from the act.
He said that to be able to sustain development, an MP must have stayed long in parliament to mature and network to be able to bring about development.
”Those of you who change your MPs like shirts that’s your problem because to be able to get the development you have to be there for some time, you have to mature, you have to network, you must be known.
“So if I’m now a speaker do I need a minister to come and give me development? He has to come because he needs favour from me. I don’t need to call him. If you are a first-time MP and you call, they do not even know you,”he said.
The Speaker said this when he paid a courtesy call on the overlord of theGonja Traditional area as part of activities marking the 30th celebration of Parliament.
He was talking about Ghana’s democracy in the last 30 years.He stated that, despite being an advocate for MPs staying in parliament for a long time, he was referring to MPs who are performing, and the need for them to be allowed to stay for a long time to mature.
The Speaker Parliament said Ghana has practiced democracy for the past 30 years without any interruption, something he said has never happened in the country’s history.
In celebrating the achievement, he said there was the need for an evaluation to find out where the country got it right and wrong.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has advocated for the adoption of tactical measures to strengthen democratic government and hasten national progress.
He expressed concern over the global decline in democratic governance and warned that Ghana’s situation could worsen if proactive steps are not taken to preserve it.
The Speaker made these remarks at a press soiree held in Tamale, the capital of the Northern Region. The event was organized as part of the activities commemorating 30 years of uninterrupted parliamentary democracy in Ghana.
Alban Bagbin emphasized the critical role of the media in governance and called on practitioners to serve as partners in the country’s progress.
“There is a decline in democratic governance around the world, but ours has reached a point where we must take action. If we want to develop, we must all take action. So we are here to use you not as tools, but as partners in development.”
“Whatever we do, if it is not the media that gives it meaning, then we have done nothing. You convey it to the people we want to reach, and you explain it better to the people. So, you are the linguists for the people to understand us better. It is not just a mantra that you are the fourth arm of government. It is a reality because without the media, there will be no government.”
The speaker also weighed in on the ongoing debate on the use of artificial intelligence. He described the tool as a double-edged sword that is valuable in the fast-changing technological world, noting that there is a proposal in parliament regarding the need to regulate its use.
He stated that the house will deliberate and seek broader input from experts and the public before it is passed into law.
In the ongoing debate concerning the legalization of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has expressed strong opposition, stating that he would rather face death than support such the move.
He explained that being Catholic, he would rather sit on the fence than be a part of the agenda to legalize the activities of the minority group.
“For you all to participate in it, count me out of Ghana because I will prefer to join my maker than to live. That is me I am a Catholic and I will not do anything that will end the world because God says the world is eternal until he comes back, we cannot do that to end the world,” a report by dailyguidenetwork.com quoted him.
The report added that Alban Bagbin made the comments during a press soirée in Tamale as part of Parliament of Ghana’s 30th anniversary celebration, on the theme: “Thirty(30) years of ParliamentaryDemocracy Under the Fourth Republic; The Journey thus far.”
Parliament is currently considering a Private Member’s Bill titled the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021, popularly referred to as the Anti-LGBTQI+ Bill.
The bill is spearheaded by the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George.
Speaker Alban Bagbin has instructed all members of parliament (MPs) to desist from engaging in any other activity today apart from planting of trees.
The speaker gave the order to enforce the planting of 10 million trees seedlings directive by government to commemorate Green Ghana Day.
Drawing inspiration from successful tree-planting endeavours in other parts of the world, such as Dubai, where deserts have been transformed into lush forests, Alban Bagbin highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to tree planting in Ghana.
He acknowledged that while the survival rate of planted seedlings needed improvement, it was crucial to persevere in the face of challenges.
Mr. Bagbin stressed the importance of taking action and not using concerns such as illegal mining, known asgalamsey, as a reason to abandon tree planting efforts.
He emphasized that refraining from planting trees would only exacerbate the situation. Instead, he encouraged members of Parliament to lead by example and engage their constituents in the tree planting exercise.
In light of his support for the cause, Mr. Bagbin announced that there would be no parliamentary sitting on Friday to allow members to participate in tree planting activities.He called for collective efforts in nurturing and growing trees to ensure their long-term survival and the positive impact on the environment.
“The tree planting you’ve seen in the Middle East, Dubai and the rest where they really bring trees and plant for a desert to be turned into forest. That is tree planting. What we do here is planting seedlings and we should talk about growing trees.
“We plant and go away and the survival rate is what we are talking about which we have to work on. But I believe that it’s better to do this than to say that because there is galamsey (illegal mining) we will not plant the trees, then we will worsen the situation,” Mr. Bagbin stated.
He continued: “So please I want to encourage members to continue and let’s grow the trees together and I will direct that honorable members to as usual proceed to lead their constituents in the exercise. So there will be no sitting on Friday.”
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Forestry Commission also urged all Ghanaians and residents to actively participate in the national tree-planting exercise.
Today, Friday, June 9, 2023, marks the third edition of Green Ghana Day.The event forms a vital component of an ambitious afforestation and reforestation agenda aimed at restoring the country’s depleted forest cover.
The Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam Nartey George has revealed that the SIM card of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has been deactivated despite having gone through the necessary registration processes.
The MP who was speaking on the floor of parliament on Tuesday, June 6, added that the numbers of some judges, lawyers, doctors and Members of Parliament, including him, had been blocked.
He also reiterated the need for the Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful to address the house on the process and measures being taken to avert the deactivations made so far.
“We are talking over 8 million SIM cards that have been disconnected including even the Speaker of Parliament. Not the deputy but the Speaker of Parliament himself. His official SIM card has been disconnected even though it was registered in the name of the Parliament of Ghana.
“We have judges, we have lawyers, we have doctors, MPs whose SIM cards were disconnected. Even me, my SIM card was disconnected. Our SIM cards were disconnected,” he said.
The MP subsequently defended persons whose SIM cards have been blocked, adding that it was never their fault to have their SIMS unregistered but rather, the NIA should be blamed for refusing to issue Ghana cards since December 2022.
“Mr. Speaker, it is important that this house takes into consideration that the National Identification Authority (NIA) has failed to issue any Ghanaian citizen a Ghana card in any District NIA office since December 2022. So, it is not the fault of the stubborn academy that we have not been able to register our SIM cards. It is not the fault of any Ghanaian that they have been able to register their SIMs,” he added.
Millions of Ghanaians had their SIM cards disconnected on May 31 after several extensions to have every citizen reregister their SIMs.
The speaker of parliament, Alban Bagbin’s SIM card has been deactivated despite registration, according to Sam George, MP for Ningo-Prampram.
Over 8 million unregistered SIM cards were deactivated by the various telecommunication firms after the May 31 deadline announced by the government for the registration exercise.
Although the Minister of Communications, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful has been scheduled to appear before Parliament on Thursday, June 8, 2023, to apprise the legislators on the exercise, Sam George stressed the need for the Minister to appear on time to address concerns raised regarding the process.
“Over 8 million SIM cards have been disconnected including the [that of the] Speaker of Parliament. His official SIM card has been disconnected even though it was registered in the name of the Parliament of Ghana. My SIM card was [also] disconnected.
“We are insisting that the National Identification Authority provides us with theGhana Card, so we can register our SIM cards. It is important that the Minister appears before us to answer questions, if possible, even today because people’s livelihoods have been affected and people’s mobile monies have been stacked due to the disconnection.”
Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has told Chief Justice Nominee Gertrude Torkornoo that her outstanding legal career throughout the years is an encouragement to women.
During the vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Friday, May 26, Mr Afenyo-Markin who is also a lawmaker for Effutu said “You are an inspiration to women.”
When asked what she had to say to women or young girls who are in self-doubt about their prospects in life? she answered: “I will ask them to be confident in themselves, to work on the areas that derate the self-doubts, to choose not to look down on themselves, every girl is entitled to sit with her brother.”
President Akufo-Addo nominated her in April.
According to the President, her nomination was to avoid any vacuum that would occur following the retirement of the Chief Justice, Kwasi Anin-Yeboah, who retired on Wednesday, May 24.
Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, who hails from Winneba in the Central Region, if approved, will become the third female Chief Justice in the history of Ghana, after Justices Georgina Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo.
President Akufo-Addo had earlier urged the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to quickly facilitate the approval of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo for the position of Chief Justice.
Anyaa Sowutuom MP, Dickson Adomako Kissi, has come under heavy criticism after asking the Speaker to be cautious about his utterances regarding LGBTQ+ since they could have economic implications on the country.
For telling the Speaker of Parliament not to speak against LGBTQ+ outside Ghana, broadcaster Yaa Titi Okrah is asking Anyaa Sowutuom lawmaker, Dickson Adomako Kissi, if he is involved in the practice.
The MP, during a panel discussion on GTV indicated Speaker Bagbin should be measured in his utterances when he is outside Ghana since his views represent that of the entire country.
According to the MP, the Speaker could deliver same message but in a different tonation and choice of language to avoid breaching international diplomacy.
The MP is worried the Speaker’s stance and mode of expression could deny Ghana the assistance it seeks from the international community including the bailout from the IMF.
But reacting to the MP’s comments, Iron Lady expressed fret over why the MP wants to dictate to the Speaker what to say or not because the NPP government wants a bailout at all cost.
She is asking if the MP is in anyway involved in the act to make those pronouncements to the Speaker.
“You want us to accept LGBTQ for those who practice it to take over the few hospital beds we have? I know you to be a very responsible man Adomako Kissi so if there has been a meeting somewhere dictating to you what to say about this LGBTQ, you better revert to the respected self we know you to be. Or you’re involved in the LGBT?” she asked.
Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Albert Sumana Kingsford Bagbin reiterated his stance against LGBTQ despite ‘pressures’ and comments from the western world on the need to grant those who practice it the right to engage and promote their supposed sexual orientation.
The Speaker says the customs and conventions which form the bedrock of Ghana’s constitution abhors such disdainful acts and he as a Speaker will not superintend a Legislature that will pass a law to allow such practice in Ghana.
He made the comments at the British House of Lords and Commons in the United Kingdom where the LGBTQ+ matter became topical during his visit.
Speaker Bagbin, unlike President Akufo-Addo, who wasn’t emphatic when US Vice President Kamala Harris visited Ghana said the country’s constitution will guide the Legislature on what to do.
“There is nothing untoward; nothing wrong with the efforts by Ghana’s Parliament to legislate on the promotion of human sexual rights and family values in Ghana, using our constitution as a compass,” he told the House of Lords.
Berating threats from donor countries and other powerful global institutions to countries that enact legislations which frown on LGBTQ matters, Mr. Bagbin said threats and boycotts wouldn’t ameliorate any challenge.
“Threats are not the way to go. If your neighbour or partner has a problem, you help him to solve it. Boycotts and threats do not solve problems: engagement and understanding do,” he added.
The Speaker further indicated “there is urgent need of legislation in the area of LGBTTQR± in Ghana. Parliament is aware of the copious human rights provisions in the Constitution of the country. Parliament knows that “any legislation that detracts from the human rights and freedoms guaranteed by our constitution will be a candidate for litigation in our court of law”.
Responding to a question on the role of the President in the bill under reference, the Speaker insisted that Ghana’s Parliament has the mandate and the capability to legislate on the subject, and will not countenance any interference from the executive. He explained that the role of the President is to accent to bills submitted to him by Parliament. In the process, the President can make recommendations for the consideration of Parliament. However, final legislative powers rest with the legislature, not the executive. “Ghana’s democracy is based on the rule of law, not the rule of man”, he pointed out.
Besides, he said, Ghana’s constitution is heavy on the promotion and protection of various fundamental human rights and freedoms, and gave an assurance that curtailing human rights is not the target of the bill under reference; rather, it is about the protection of rights as well as values; so is it about the healthcare and welfare of Ghanaians, particularly those whose sexual orientation has implications for their health.
According to the Speaker, the legislature has engaged in very wide and broad consultations whilst working on the Promotion of Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Members of the select committee working on it have held consultations in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, EU and Canada, among others for a deeper appreciation of the issues at stake.
In addition, the committee has received and considered about 400 memoranda on the issue and has granted audience to many advocacy groups, professional associations, traditional leaders, civil society groups, and religious leaders. He said the approach to this bill has been to “think global and act local”.
Today, May 2, 2023, members of parliament (MPs) will be in parliament following an order by Alban Bagbin, Speaker of the House, for “urgent parliamentary business.”
Some MPs have claimed that the recall is to compel them to give government clearance to go for another loan.
The House went on break on March 31, 2023, after passing three controversial tax bills into law with the Nanton Member of Parliament involved in an accident on his way to Parliament to partake in the vote to approve the bills.
On the night, the MPs also approved two additionalSupreme Court Justices who had been vetted by the Appointments Committee earlier in the year.
Alban Bagbin in a statement recalling the legislators said: “In exercise of the power conferred on the Speaker by order 42(3) of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana, I, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, do hereby direct that Parliament shall notwithstanding anything to the contrary, be recalled from recess to sit on Tuesday, the 2nd day of May 2023, at ten o’clock in the forenoon, at Parliament House, Accra, to consider urgent parliamentary business.”
Minority unhappy with MPs recall from recess
Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament is unhappy with the recall.
In a tweet, the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, alleged that the recall is to compel MPs to approve the government’s decision to go on another borrowing spree.
He took a swipe at the government for recklessly borrowing despite the current economic challenges confronting the country.
“I have been inundated with calls asking why Parliament has been recalled for urgent business on May 2, 2023. It is difficult to comprehend why the NPP government has the courage to continue borrowing after its reckless borrowing has completely destroyed the Ghanaian economy beyond recognition for generations to come,” he slammed the government in a tweet.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin published a recall notice to MPs on April 22, thus, members of Parliament recovene for urgent business today after .
Bagbin’s notice sighted by the media stated, “I…direct that Parliament shall notwithstanding anything to the contrary, be recalled from recess to sit on Tuesday, the 2nd day of May 2023, at ten o’clock in the forenoon, at Parliament House, Accra, to consider urgent parliamentary business.”
The question that has been on the minds of many has been what business specifically has occassioned the recall.
Ato Forson hints of loan agreement
Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson hours after the recall notice revealed a reason for the recall.
He said the Minority had no prior knowledge of the recall order issued by Speaker Alban Bagbin, “I wish to state that the minority leadership and members learned about the recall from the media, just like anyone else.”
He also confirmed that the sitting of the House will be for a day and that it is connected with a “loan agreement currently before it.”
“It is difficult to comprehend why the NPP government has the courage to continue borrowing, especially after its reckless borrowing, has completely destroyed the Ghanaian economy beyond recognition for generations to come.”
New CJ expected to be vetted:
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, last week, nominated Justice Gertrude Torkonoo as the next Chief Justice of Ghana.
The nomination was announced via an April 26, 2023 letter from the presidency to the Council of State.
It was made in lieu of the imminent retirement of current occupant of the office, Kwasi Anin-Yeboah and is also subject to vetting and approval by Parliament.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has absolve himself from any wrongdoing in the approval of the new tax bills in Parliament.
According to the Speaker, he did no wrong in the passage of the new tax laws regardless of the absence of one of the Majority side MPs due to an accident.
He said he only followed the rules during the process.
MP for Nanton, Mohammed Hardi Tuferu was involved in an accident on his way to take part in a vote on the new tax bills laid before parliament.
According to the Speaker, he has done nothing untoward by including Mr. Hardi Tuferu in the headcounts that were carried out on the floor of parliament.
“Members who are incapacitated shall upon reporting their incapacity to the Speaker through the Clerk shall be recorded. We have some of our members that are incapacitated and what I did was to ask the Whips to go and physically see them to assess their incapacitation and whether they are of sound mind.”
Despite the unfortunate incident, the legislator was aided by his colleagues in the Majority caucus to partake in the activity before being driven to the hospital.
The Speaker instructed the Whips on both sides of the house to clarify the situation as the MP was being transported to the house in an ambulance.
Following the procedures, Speaker Alban Bagbin explained why the lawmaker’s vote was included in the total.
Outcome of the headcount votes indicated that 136 MPs, representing the Minority caucus voted against the bill whereas 137 Majority caucus MPs voted to approve the new tax bills.
The Kumawu seat in the Ashanti Region has been declared vacant by Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. A.S.K. Bagbin.
This follows the death of Philip Atta Basoah, the former Member of Parliament.
The Speaker has therefore, directed the EC to hold a by-election for a replacement of the late MP.
Article 112 (5) of the 1992 constitution states that “whenever a vacancy occurs in Parliament, the Clerk to Parliament shall notify the Electoral commission in writing within seven days after the vacancy occurred, and a by-election shall be held within thirty days after the vacancy occurred.”
The former lawmakee died on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he had been on admission briefly.
He’s said to have been struck with a stroke while sleeping.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has asserted that no suspicious activity occurred during the passing of the tax Bills although the member of parliament for Nanton, Mohammed Hardi Tuferu wasn’t present.
The MP was involved in anaccidenton Friday while on his way to Parliament to partake in a vote on the financial bills under consideration.
The MP was driven to the house in an ambulance with the Whips on both sides of the house directed by the Speaker to confirm the situation.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin after proceedings clarified why the legislator was counted as part of the votes.
”Members who are incapacitated shall upon reporting their incapacity to the Speaker through the Clerk shall be recorded. We have some of our members that are incapacitated and what I did was to ask the Whips to go and physically see them to assess their incapacitation and whether they are of sound mind.”
“I did not do anything untoward. I only followed the rules.”
When history was made on the midnight of 7th January, 2021 with the election of Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin as the Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana, there were high expectations from the people of Ghana for the Legislative Arm of Government to deliver on its mandate of serving as a check on the Executive and the Judiciary.
Having assumed the enviable role of speaker in the current the venerable Rt Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has not disappointed thus far as he discharges his duties and mandate with a clever, intelligent and clear sense of judgment bringing to bare his legal training and profession as a lawyer as well as his enviable experience of twenty-eight uninterrupted years as a parliamentarian.
As expected of any decision-making process which might draw both agreements and disagreements, the Parliament of Ghana has received its fair share. However, there have been some unique occasions on which the Rt Hon Speaker of Parliament has taken some bold and courageous decisions that have drawn and received the admiration and applause of the masses. Very notable among these instances include but not limited to the following;
1. OPEN ABHORRENCE AND CRITICISM OF LGBTQI+ ACTIVITIES; the strong and critical stance of the Rt Hon Alban Bagbin on the creeping and growing phenomenon of LGBTQI+ is no secret to the public. He has ceased every available opportunity to speak against it and shown an open support for legislation against it. Even at international conferences outside of Ghana, RT Hon Bagbin canvassed for support to criminalize the trend as it is inhuman and should not be tolerated. His courage and conviction to condemn LGBTQI Activities reached epic levels when he took a swipe at the US Vice President Kamala Harris and our own President Nana Akufo-Addo when their joint press conference suggested that Ghana was going to soften its stance on the call for legislation to curb the growing canker of LGBTQI in the country. This spirited response by the Speaker of Parliament has earned him enormous admiration by majority of the people.
2. DIRECTIVE TO GENERAL LEGAL COUNCIL TO IMMEDIATELY ADMIT SOME 499 LAW SCHOOL APPLICANTS WHO WERE DENIED ADMISSION; When the General Legal Council released results of the entrance examination into the Ghana School of Law in 2021, as many as four-hundred and ninety-nine students were unjustifiably denied admission under very strange and curious circumstances. These students were compelled to seek all manner of avenues including street protests to have their issues addressed all to no avail. It had to take a directive by the Speaker for the General Legal Council to have the famous 499 students admitted immediately without any further delay. This followed the inability of the Attorney-General and the General Legal Council to convince MR SPEAKER and Parliament on the propriety of their decision.
3. DITCHING OF THE SUIT AND CLOAK FOR EVERYDAY SITTINGS OF PARLIAMENT; Soon upon assuming the seat of speaker of parliament, the Rt Hon Alban Bagbin stole the hearts of Ghanaians when he ditched the wearing of the colonial suit and cloak for Ghanaian and Traditional African apparel safe on special occasions or ceremonies in Parliament. This decision by the Speaker apart from the tourism and marketing potential the Ghanaian and African costume offers to the local producers also sheds off the longstanding colonial mentality accompanying the previous dress code inherited from the colonial administration. This decision by the Speaker has been received with so much applause.
4. CALL FOR THE EXEMPTION OF PENSIONER FUNDS FROM THE DOMESTIC DEBT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME; On the raging and heated matter of the ongoing domestic debt exchange programme, the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Finance sought to include the funds of pensioners in the programme. This was met with a spirited protest by the pensioners who would have been affected by this unpopular decision. The Rt Hon Speaker of Parliament invited the Minister of Finance to Parliament and proceeded to direct him to exclude the vulnerable pensioners from the programme considering their peculiar circumstances having toiled and sacrificed to contribute to building our nation. On this particular occasion, the Speaker of Parliament received commendations from the public.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has admonished Parliamentarians not to joke with their health following the demise of Kumawu MP, Philip Basoah.
He entreated them to make a conscious effort to go for regular checks in order to avoid untimely death.
His advice follows the death of the MP for Kumawu in the Ashanti Region, Philip Atta Basoah, who died on Tuesday morning.
“You know immediately you are no more, people start thinking about your replacement, so be guided,” he said.
He also urged MPs not to sit in one place for more than two hours as other hidden medical conditions could trigger them.
Speaking in parliament on March 28, he said “so please when I’m suspending the House, you should understand. It’s unhealthy.”
The Speaker said the late MP came to parliament last Thursday very strong and was ready to cast his ballot until it was rescheduled for last Friday (March 24).
“At least, he was ready to vote while we were haggling, he just collapsed,” the Speaker said.
The New Patriotic Party MP for Kumawu in the Ashanti Region, Philip Atta Basoah died in the early hours of Tuesday, March 28 at age 53.
The deceased MP was one of the three absentee MPs last Friday during a critical vote to confirm ministerial appointees of President Akufo-Addo.
