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Tag: “Parliament

  • Parliament must be capped to 277 members – Constitutional Review Consultative Committee

    Parliament must be capped to 277 members – Constitutional Review Consultative Committee

    The Constitutional Review Consultative Committee has submitted its initial findings to Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu.

    Among its key proposals is a recommendation to limit the size of parliament to 277 members, as outlined in the proposed amendment to Article 93 of the Constitution: “There shall be a Parliament of Ghana which shall consist of not more than two hundred and seventy-seven elected members.”

    This suggestion necessitates corresponding changes to Article 47 to establish a maximum number of constituencies not exceeding 277, as determined by the Electoral Commission.

    Chaired by Clare Kasser-Tee, the committee was tasked by Minister Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu to revisit the 2011 report of the Constitution Review Commission.

    Its responsibilities include assessing inputs from various constitutional review platforms like KNUST, IEA, University of Ghana Law School, UPSA, and GIMPA. Furthermore, the committee is charged with making recommendations to the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and its affiliates, including NCCE, ACET, CDD, IDEG, and NDPC.

    On June 13, 2024, these recommendations were presented to Minister Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu for initial consideration in refining the 1992 Constitution.

  • Titus Glover leads taskforce efforts to pull down structure at Ramsar site

    Titus Glover leads taskforce efforts to pull down structure at Ramsar site

    The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, has led a taskforce to dismantle a structure situated on the waterways at the Sakumono Ramsar site.

    This action follows the Minister’s recent declaration of all Ramsar sites within the Tema Metropolitan, Tema West Municipal, Ablekuma West Municipal, and the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assemblies as security zones.

    Despite the Minister’s directive, some individuals persist in erecting illegal constructions, posing a threat to the site’s integrity.

    Titus-Glover, the former Tema East Member of Parliament, expressed his commitment to enforcing strict compliance and reclaiming these lands.

    In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Titus-Glover recounted receiving information about unauthorized construction within the wetlands, prompting immediate action.

    Accompanied by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) and supported by the Police, they demolished the structure.

    He emphasized the need to halt such impunity, questioning the rationale behind acquiring land in a wetland.

    Titus-Glover cautioned that Teshie Sango would be his next focal point, asserting his determination to address the issue without succumbing to political or other external pressures.

    Moreover, he revealed plans to adopt a roadmap initiated by his predecessor, Henry Quartey, in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, to address the ongoing challenges effectively.

  • Ghana Card has helped remove ghost workers on government payroll – Bawumia

    Ghana Card has helped remove ghost workers on government payroll – Bawumia

    The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that the government’s payroll is now free from ghost names.

    He attributed this achievement to the integration of the Ghana Card into the national digital system.

    In an audio excerpt circulated on GHOne TV, Dr. Bawumia, also serving as the country’s Vice President, confidently asserted that the absence of ghost workers on the government payroll is directly linked to the utilization of the Ghana Card.

    “So now, we can confidently say that because of the use of the Ghana Card, we don’t have ghost workers on government payroll anymore,” he stated.

    While the exact context of his statement remains unclear, it’s noteworthy that the Ghana Card has emerged as the primary identification card in the nation.

    Furthermore, the Electoral Commission has signaled its intent to reintroduce a bill in parliament, advocating for the Ghana Card to serve as the sole document for citizenship identification during voter registration.

    In the meantime, viewers are encouraged to catch up on the latest episode of The Lowdown on GhanaWeb TV.

    Etsey Atisu hosts a discussion with Davis Ansah Opoku, the MP for Mpraeso, addressing pertinent issues such as the E-Levy, the Saglemi Housing Controversy, and the ongoing OSP Impeachment saga.

    Join us for a comprehensive examination of these significant topics shaping Ghana’s current landscape.

  • If you want electricity tell Parliament to approve loans – NAPO

    If you want electricity tell Parliament to approve loans – NAPO

    Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh has called on Parliament, particularly opposition members to allow smooth approval of loans for critical projects such as that of the energy sector.

    His calls comes after Member of Parliament for Nkwanta North Constituency in the Oti Region on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) questioned him on the current state of the Ghana China Water deal which was to finance and construct various infrastructure projects across Ghana including the extension of electricity to rural communities and this appears to have halted for sometime now.

    According to the Minister, his constituency had about 19 communities connected to electricity in Phase 1, and 12 communities were awarded under Phase 2. However, since 2017, no community has been connected. He lamented the challenge of having to split the cost with the energy ministry, with 4000 thousand on buying poles.

    Dr. Matthew called on Parliament to pass loans when it resumes sitting to help the government get more funds to extend electricity nationwide without hurdles. He continued that the China Water Deal has been plagued with funding challenges, especially due to Ghana’s recent partnership with the IMF and the dire impact of COVID-19 on the country’s economy. Hence, there is a need for the government to gain access to loans to address the crisis facing the energy sector.

    “It was a contracted project and if they find out after going to site there are more projects or towns that should have been included in the project, these challenges pop up.

    After the contractor has gone out for feasibility, they find out that there are many more communities that should have been included, it means they will have to come for extra funding and it is the extra funding that has been the major problem. especially after the COVID and IMF project.

    Even when they get it passing it through Parliament is also another problem.

    I won’t blame us but I will blame parliament that even getting loans through Parliment…You hear press conferences say the country that is broke we have taken 3.5 billion. I say don’t do that because if you do that and come and ask me for money for electrification how do I get the money when you don’t pass my loan” he noted.

    He therefore urged Parliament to expedite its approval of pending loans on its table to help the government secure funds for all pending projects.

    “So I think when we come back, there are loans that need to be quickly passed. Let us assist the government in approving those loans for your 12 communities,” he added.

  • Four times Supreme Court has ruled against parliamentary decisions

    Four times Supreme Court has ruled against parliamentary decisions

    The 1992 Constitution of Ghana, especially its sections concerning the separation of powers among the executive, judiciary, and legislature, has faced significant challenges in the current era.

    Repeatedly, these three branches of government – the executive, the judiciary, and the legislature – have clashed over governance matters, each asserting its authority as prescribed by the constitution.

    Of particular interest is the tension between the judiciary and the legislature, often leaving Parliament in a precarious position.

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has frequently voiced frustrations over Supreme Court rulings that nullify certain parliamentary decisions.

    Here are the four instances where the Supreme Court invalidated parliamentary decisions:

    Exclusion of 1st and 2nd Ladies from Article 71 Benefits:
    In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court declared that the spouses of the President and Vice President, known as the 1st and 2nd Ladies, are not entitled to benefits reserved for Article 71 officeholders, including ex-gratia payments.

    This decision challenged Parliament-approved recommendations for these benefits, leading to legal action by various parties, including MPs and private citizens.

    Striking Out Sections of the Companies Act 2019:
    The Supreme Court, responding to a constitutional matter, invalidated specific sections of the Companies Act 2019, citing inconsistencies with the 1992 Constitution. The court’s decision came following a legal challenge by lawyer Derick Adu-Gyamfi, who argued that these sections violated constitutional principles such as fair hearing.

    Invalidation of Parts of Parliament’s Standing Orders:
    In March 2022, the Supreme Court struck down portions of Parliament’s Standing Orders, particularly Order 109(3), which addressed the voting rights of a deputy speaker or presiding member. This action stemmed from a legal challenge questioning the constitutionality of the passage of the 2022 budget statement, where the 1st Deputy Speaker counted himself as part of the quorum while presiding over the session.

    Nullification of Sections of the Narcotic Control Commission Act 2020:
    The Supreme Court, in a split decision, invalidated Section 43 of the Narcotic Control Commission Act 2020, which permitted the licensing of cannabis cultivation for industrial and medicinal purposes.

    The court ruled that this section violated Article 106 of the 1992 Constitution, which outlines the legislative process. The lack of proper debate and transparency in introducing this section further underscored the unconstitutionality of the provision.

    “The mode of introduction of Section 43 of Act 1019 violates the letter and spirit of the Constitution. Accordingly, Section 43 is hereby struck out as unconstitutional.

    “The lack of debate on Section 43 of Act 1019 amounts to not only a direct violation of the letter of Article 106 of the Constitution, but also a violation of the spirit of the law.

    “There was conspicuously, no debate over such a critical shift in policy by Parliament. Needless to say, this conduct and mode of law-making defeats the transparency and accountability enjoined by the Constitution,” graphic.com quoted the court as having said.

  • Give us a date we can present anti-LGBTQ bill for consideration – Parliament tells presidency

    Give us a date we can present anti-LGBTQ bill for consideration – Parliament tells presidency

    Parliament has formally made a request to the Office of the President for a specific date regarding the transmission of the Human Sexual and Family Values Bill for presidential assent.

    This action follows a directive from Nana Bediatuo Asante, the secretary to President Akufo-Addo, on March 18, urging Parliament to withhold the presentation of the bill, also referred to as the anti-LGBT+ bill, to the President.

    Asante’s request was issued pending the resolution of pertinent matters currently under consideration by the Supreme Court.

    Acknowledging the President’s office’s request to pause the bill’s progression, Cyril K. O. Nsiah, the Clerk to Parliament, communicated in a letter dated April 10, 2024.

    However, Mr Nsiah also requested the President’s office to specify a suitable day for Parliament to present the Human Sexual and Family Value Bill, 2024, to the President for his deliberation.

    “Accordingly, I await an indication in writing from your office on when to present the Human Sexual and Family Value Bill, 2024 to His Excellency the President for his consideration, pursuant to Article 106(7) of the Constitution, 1992” the letter read.

  • Akufo-Addo wants private member’s bills under his name – Sosu

    Akufo-Addo wants private member’s bills under his name – Sosu

    The Member of Parliament for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has voiced his concerns regarding President Akufo-Addo’s reluctance to endorse certain private member’s bills.

    In correspondence to Parliament, the President cited potential financial implications on the state’s consolidated fund and a breach of Article 108 of the constitution as reasons for his refusal to approve the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill and the Ghana Armed Forces Amendment Bill, both sponsored by Mr. Sosu.

    Critics argue that the country will suffer from the President’s failure to sign the anti-witchcraft law, especially after the implementation of the death penalty.

    During an interview on Citi TV’s Face to Face, Mr. Sosu criticized the President’s insistence on having Parliament introduce the bills in his name as “untenable”.

    “The status is that the President has indicated to Parliament that he wanted those bills to be introduced in his name. The legal argument made by the President before the Parliament of Ghana, honestly speaking is not tenable.

    “With all due respect to the President. I believe that the President was misled on those matters. Hopefully, the President still has an opportunity between now and the end of the year to do something about them.”

    Mr. Sosu expressed optimism that both local and international bodies will urge the presidency to approve the bills.

    “It’s the reason why on be issue of the Witchcraft Accusation Bill, which I believe is so critical to the protection of women in Ghana. I have filed five different petitions, I have petitioned the UN, Human Rights Commission, AU Commission, ECOWAS, Council of State, and CHRAJ and hoping that the President will take some swift action on these matters. I’m hoping that all these international bodies will bring some form of persuasion on the presidency to assent these bills.”

  • Increase in passport fees is to expedite processes – Appiah-Kubi

    Increase in passport fees is to expedite processes – Appiah-Kubi

    Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, Kwame Andy Appiah-Kubi, has emphasized the necessity of equipping the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration with sufficient resources to facilitate the prompt issuance of passports.

    This assertion comes as he defends the rationale behind the recent increase in passport application fees.

    The rationale behind the increase, according to him, is to ensure broader passport access and resource sufficiency for the Ministry to print more passports.

    During an interview on 3FM’s mid-day news with Beatrice Adu, Appiah-Kubi elucidated that the Ministry sought fee increment approval due to operational deficits and the imperative to expand passport access.

    He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to maintain timely service delivery, urging citizens to recognize the necessity of the fees for facilitating efficient operations.

    “You remember during the budget there was an indication that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration was running at a loss in respect of applications and operations of passports and at the time parliament approved that the Ministry should bring new fees. I happen to be a member of the subsidiary committee and during the consideration for the fees and charges the Ministry made the submission to the committee the need for us to increase the fees.

    “So this was approved by the committee and subsequently adopted by the Parliament of Ghana.

    However, the fee hike has faced criticism from various quarters, including North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who deems it insensitive amidst economic challenges.

    Ablakwa, in a Facebook post, decried the “draconian” fee hikes, promising a push for reversal when Parliament resumes from recess.

    “The timing is unacceptable, we have an economic crisis on our hands where people for the first time are being taken through debt restructuring, haircut, the timing is totally insensitive”.

    Previously, the Minority in Parliament, led by the Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, announced their intention to advocate for the reversal of the recent passport application fee hikes.

    Labeling the new fees as “draconian,” the Ranking Member expressed his dismay over the Ministry’s decision to implement such substantial increases.

    In a Facebook post, he expressed his deep disappointment with the Ministry, condemning what he referred to as “astronomical increases” in passport fees.

    Asserting that the current economic challenges and soaring living costs rendered the fee increments unjustifiable, he reiterated the Minority’s stance that a graduated approach would have been more prudent.

    Despite their advocacy for a more gradual adjustment, the Ministry proceeded with what the Minority deemed as insensitive and unjustifiable fee hikes.

    “As my NDC colleagues and I always maintained at the Foreign Affairs Committee, the current economic crisis and unprecedented high cost of living make it untenable to impose these draconian fees.

    “We insisted at the Committee that the worst case scenario could be a graduated approach when economic conditions improve, but alas, they ignored our advice and have gone ahead to impose these insensitive rates in one fell swoop.”

    draconian

    “The Ministry should reconsider this inimical action immediately. We shall surely revisit this matter when Parliament resumes from recess,” he stated.

    Background:

    The Ministry hiked passport application fees to GHC500 for a 32-page standard booklet and GHC644 for a 48-page booklet, effective April 1, 2024, citing the need to mitigate losses in passport printing.

    Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey had earlier lobbied for the fee review, citing unsustainable printing costs compared to sub-regional counterparts.

    The proposal faced no objection within 21 days at the committee level, leading to its implementation.

  • Finance Ministry unable to secure $50m required for powering thermal plants amid dumsor – Jinapor

    Finance Ministry unable to secure $50m required for powering thermal plants amid dumsor – Jinapor

    The representative for Yapei-Kusawgu in Parliament, John Abdulai Jinapor, has claimed that the Ministry of Finance has failed to fulfill a $50 million request from the Energy Ministry for purchasing fuel required by the thermal plants.

    According to Jinapor, as reported by Onua FM, the ongoing erratic power supply faced by Ghanaians is attributed to the government’s inability to allocate funds for fueling the thermal plants.

    Providing additional insights, the member of parliament’s Mines and Energy committee revealed that although the hydro plants are operating at maximum capacity, the thermal plants remain inactive due to gas shortages.

    Mr Jinapor highlighted that an amount of $50 million is needed to settle outstanding debts and procure new gas to fuel the plants.

    He emphasized, “It is a financial problem; if they acquire the funds today and purchase fuel, the issue would be resolved. The thermal plants are ready, the hydro plants are operating optimally; all that’s required is fuel for the thermal plants.”

    Acknowledging the power deficit, Jinapor elaborated on the procedures undertaken by GRIDCo (Ghana Grid Company Limited) and ECG (Electricity Company of Ghana) to manage the situation. He refuted claims by the Managing Director of ECG regarding overloaded transformers as the cause of power outages, attributing the issue to insufficient generation capacity.

    The country has been grappling with heightened power challenges, commonly referred to as ‘dumsor,’ with widespread outages across various regions.

    In response to public demands for a load-shedding timetable, Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, dismissed the necessity, citing ECG’s stance against it. He questioned the motives behind requesting such a timetable, asserting that it could incite negativity towards the nation.

  • Resume vetting of ministerial appointees, there is no injunction application at Supreme Court – A-G directs Parliament

    Resume vetting of ministerial appointees, there is no injunction application at Supreme Court – A-G directs Parliament

    The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has denied receiving any interlocutory injunction related to the case brought by Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Etse K. Dafeamekpor over the ministerial appointment made by President Akufo-Addo.

    Mr. Dame, in a letter addressed to the Speaker on Thursday, March 21, clarified that he has not been served with any legal documents regarding such court proceedings.

    “The plaintiff has not filed an application for interlocutory injunction seeking to restrain the Speaker from proceeding with the vetting and approval of the names of the persons submitted by His Excellency the President…”, or indeed, any other interlocutory relief.”

    “Thus, there is nothing before the Supreme Court which may constitute a restraint or fetter on Parliament from proceeding with the approval of ministerial and deputy ministerial nominees presented to Parliament by the President in accordance with articles 78(1) and 79(1) of the Constitution.”

    Parliament suspended the vetting process for the nomination of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of State by President Akufo-Addo on Wednesday, March 20, following a reported interlocutory injunction filed at the Supreme Court by MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor.

    In his closing remarks to the House before adjourning on Wednesday, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin cited the lawsuit as the reason for suspending the vetting process, as it prevented Parliament from proceeding with the nominations.

    “Hon Members, I also bring to your attention, the receipt of a process from the Courts titled Rockson-Nelson Etse K. Dafeamekpor vrs. The Speaker of Parliament and the Attorney-General ( Suit no. J1/12/2024) which process was served on the 19th of March 2024 and an injunction motion on notice seeking to restrain the Speaker from proceeding with the vetting and approval of the names of the persons submitted by His Excellency the President until the provisions of the constitution are satisfied.”

    Now, the Attorney General has noted that since no injunction has been filed, Parliament ought to proceed with the vetting and approval of Ministers and Deputy Ministers appointed by the President.

    “The substance of Mr Dafeamekpor’s suit is a challenge on the power of the President to relieve Ministers serving in his government of their portfolios and reassign them to different Ministries.”

    “It has no bearing on the approval of persons newly nominated by the President as Ministers and Deputy Ministers and duly presented to Parliament for approval in accordance with articles 78(1) and 79 (1) of the constitution.”

  • Property Rights of Spouses Bill under review in parliament

    Property Rights of Spouses Bill under review in parliament

    Parliament convened a stakeholder engagement session to deliberate on the Property Rights of Spouses Bill, 2024, a significant legislative initiative aimed at regulating spousal property rights in alignment with Article 22 of the 1992 Constitution and other relevant matters.

    The primary objective of the session was to provide interested parties with an opportunity to propose amendments to the Bill as deemed necessary.

    Prominent lawmakers such as Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Member of Parliament for Techiman North; Patricia Appiagyei, Member of Parliament for Asokwa; and Gizella Tetteh-Agbotsui, Member of Parliament for Awutu-Agbotui, spearheaded the session.

    In addition to parliamentarians, the engagement witnessed the active participation of legal experts representing academia and civil society organizations.

    Their involvement emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping legislation that safeguards the rights and interests of spouses within the constitutional framework.

    The engagement served as a forum for in-depth discussions and deliberations, with stakeholders offering valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the proposed Bill.

    Through this collaborative process, Parliament aims to ensure that the final legislation comprehensively addresses the complexities of spousal property rights, promoting fairness and equity in accordance with constitutional principles.

  • Anti-gay bill: You lack the right to write to parliament – Haruna Iddrisu to Akufo-Addo’s secretary

    Anti-gay bill: You lack the right to write to parliament – Haruna Iddrisu to Akufo-Addo’s secretary


    The Member of Parliament for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, has criticized Akufo-Addo for showing disregard towards parliament regarding a letter addressed to the clerk of parliament.

    Haruna Iddrisu expressed deep concern over what he termed a significant threat to Ghana’s democracy and the integrity of parliament as an institution.

    He emphasized the need for all democracy-loving individuals to stand against President Akufo-Addo’s apparent quest for dominance over other state organs.

    “I am unable to sleep because this is a monumental threat to Ghana’s democracy and a monumental threat to parliament as an institution,” remarked Haruna Iddrisu during an interview. “This letter only reflects President Akufo-Addo’s quest for predominance over other organs of the state. That is unacceptable and must be fought by all persons who love democracy and cherish the principles and values of the 1992 Constitution.”

    “Politically, what power does the president’s secretary have to write to the clerk of parliament? And not the president himself writing directly to the Speaker of Parliament as required in the Standing Orders, so that officially, this can be read as communication from the president. So ideally, this paper means nothing and should be ignored by the clerk because communication to parliament must be signed by the president, addressed to the Speaker of Parliament,” Haruna Iddrisu said in an interview.

    Haruna Iddrisu questioned the authority of the president’s secretary to correspond directly with the clerk of parliament, bypassing the established protocol of communication between the president and the Speaker of Parliament. He stressed that official communication to parliament should bear the president’s signature and be addressed to the Speaker.

    In response to the letter from the presidency urging parliament not to transmit the Anti-LGBT+ Bill to President Akufo-Addo for assent, citing pending legal actions, Haruna Iddrisu highlighted the significance of proper protocol in such matters.

    “It has come to the attention of this Office that while the President and other senior officials of the Presidency were at Peduase for a Cabinet Retreat on Thursday, March 14, 2024, you attempted to submit the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2024 (the ‘Bill’) to Jubilee House for the president to signify his assent or otherwise to the Bill,” the statement from Nana Bediatuo Asante, the Secretary to the President, read.

    “This Office is aware of two pending applications for an order of interlocutory injunction, both filed on March 7, 2024, in the Supreme Court in Dr. Amanda Odoi v. The Speaker of Parliament and The Attorney-General (J1/13/2023) and Richard Sky v. The Parliament of Ghana and The Attorney-General (31/9/2024), respectively, to restrain you and Parliament from transmitting the Bill to the President and also to restrain the President from signifying his assent to the Bill, pending the final determination of the matter,” the statement continued.

  • Presidency ‘warns’ Parliament against sending anti-LGBTQ bill to Akufo-Addo

    Presidency ‘warns’ Parliament against sending anti-LGBTQ bill to Akufo-Addo

    The Office of the President has requested Parliament not to forward the anti-LGBTQ bill to President Akufo-Addo for his assent.

    This decision, according to Nana Bediatuo Asante, the Secretary to the President, is based on the recognition of two pending applications for an order of interlocutory injunction before the Supreme Court.

    These applications aim to prevent Parliament from sending the bill to the President and to restrain the President from giving his assent to the bill until the final determination of the matter.

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

    The statement further disclosed that the Attorney-General had advised the President not to take any action regarding the bill until the issues raised by the suits are resolved by the Supreme Court.

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

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

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

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

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

    Since its passage, many opponents have expressed their displeasure, with some civil society groups threatening legal action should President Akufo-Addo assent to the bill for it to become law.

    President Akufo-Addo has withheld his accent as the constitutionality of the bill is being contested at the Supreme Court.

  • Communications Minister briefs Parliament on network crisis today

    Communications Minister briefs Parliament on network crisis today

    The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu Ekuful, is scheduled to appear before Parliament today, Monday, March 18, 2024.

    This appearance is in response to the internet disruption that affected the country starting from Thursday, March 14, which has yet to be fully restored.

    Mrs. Owusu Ekuful is expected to provide Parliament with a briefing on the government’s efforts to prevent future occurrences of such internet blackouts.

    The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the National Communications Authority have already issued statements regarding an undersea fibre optic disruption that is affecting internet services.

    During a session in Parliament on Friday, March 15, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the MP for North Tongu, emphasized the need for Mrs. Owusu Ekuful to appear before the House.

    He highlighted the magnitude of the disruption and expressed concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the extent of the damage.

    He also mentioned the frustrations experienced by citizens in various daily activities, such as financial services and bank transactions.

    “It’s even a national security issue. Mr Speaker, I note from the business statement that fortunately for us, the honourable minister responsible for Communications and Digitalization is expected in this House on Monday, the 18th of March, 2024, to answer two questions that are not related to this matter.

    “So I want to appeal to you if you can give a ruling that the honourable Minister, when coming to respond to these questions, shall come with a statement on this very important matter of national significance and what the government is doing to help restore normalcy so that we can have access to the internet and to our data services,” he said.

    The Member of Parliament for the Asawase constituency in the Ashanti Region, Muntaka Mubarak, has criticized the Minister’s delay in briefing Parliament on the internet disruption situation.

    He emphasized the importance of proactive communication from government officials to address public concerns and prevent speculation.

    “For me, even Monday [March 18] is looking far because this thing started yesterday in the morning like a joke. Then in the evening, it was coming back and up to now it’s not stable. Nobody knows what’s happening and the minister doesn’t find it necessary to run to this House to brief us on the reason for the country to know what is happening and give some assurances. Mr Speaker, it’s worrying,” he stressed.

    Nonetheless, the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, reassured MPs that he had been in contact with the Communications Minister. They had agreed that she would present a statement on the situation to Parliament on Monday, March 18.

    “The Minister for Communication reached out to me yesterday and indicated that she wanted to come today to make a statement on that. Meanwhile, I drew her attention to the fact that she is supposed to appear before us on Monday.

    “So the understanding was that she would come on Monday instead and then do it all together. So members be assured that this will be done on Monday. So she will be here,” Afenyo-Markin stated.

    Meanwhile, the NCA says telecommunication engineers are working to restore damaged fibre cables providing data services to Ghana and other West African countries affected.

  • 2024 elections: It will be difficult for NPP to secure 100 seats in parliament – A Plus

    2024 elections: It will be difficult for NPP to secure 100 seats in parliament – A Plus

    Ghanaian musician, Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, has made a prediction regarding the outcome of the 2024 elections for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    He asserts that unless the ruling political party becomes receptive to constructive criticism, they are destined to face defeat. According to him, the NPP is on track to lose the upcoming elections if they fail to heed advice and make necessary adjustments.

    A Plus emphasized the need for Dr. Bawumia, the NPP flagbearer, to acknowledge the reality of their situation rather than succumbing to flattery.

    He believes that honest feedback is essential for Dr. Bawumia to rectify any shortcomings within the party and improve their chances of success in the elections.

    Expressing his concerns on an entertainment program, A Plus suggested that the NPP might experience significant losses in parliamentary seats if current trends persist. He even suggested that surpassing 100 seats in Parliament would be a surprising achievement for the NPP given the prevailing circumstances.

    In offering guidance to Dr. Bawumia, A Plus advised against relying solely on praise from supporters and instead encouraged him to consider diverse perspectives for a more comprehensive understanding of the political landscape.

  • Communications Minister to update Parliament today over internet issues

    Communications Minister to update Parliament today over internet issues

    The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu Ekuful, is scheduled to address Parliament today, Monday, March 18, to shed light on the government’s efforts to resolve the ongoing internet disruptions in the country.

    The prolonged interruption in internet connectivity, now spanning five days, has sparked widespread frustration among Ghanaians.

    Despite the National Communications Authority’s announcement of a five-week timeline for restoration, Members of Parliament (MPs) believe it is imperative for the Minister to update Ghanaians on the measures being taken to restore connectivity.

    Samuel Okudzeto, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, underscored the importance of the Minister’s briefing, especially in light of the continuous updates from telecommunication service providers.

    He emphasized the need to comprehend the progress made in addressing the issue, particularly due to the potential national security implications stemming from multiple disruptions to submarine fibre optic cables in the high seas.

    “The Ghana Telecommunication Chamber and the telcos have all issued statements urging their subscribers to exercise patience. They have cited multiple disruptions to submarine fibre optic cables in the high seas, and we are unaware of the extent of these disruptions; this is a matter of national security.

    “I urge the Communications Minister to brief us on the government’s efforts to restore normalcy so that we can regain access to the internet and our data services.”

  • Mahama comes no where close to Bawumia – Majority leader

    Mahama comes no where close to Bawumia – Majority leader

    In a recent parliamentary session, Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin stated that the flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, does not measure up to the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.


    During the session, Afenyo-Markin compared the records of John Mahama as Vice President and President to that of Dr. Bawumia, emphasizing the significant disparities between the two.


    He expressed his opinion that Mahama cannot rival Dr. Bawumia’s achievements.

    In his address to the speaker and fellow parliamentarians, Afenyo-Markin criticized the opposition, stating, “These are the same people who could not lead this country to the promised land, who could not lay the foundation for economic growth.”


    He highlighted his skepticism about the opposition’s ability to bring about positive change, asserting that they lack the capability to make a substantial impact.

    “But today the liberties of opposition is making them believe that they can do something. You can do nothing. You cannot do it. You have been given the opportunity for 8 years,” he added.


    Afenyo-Markin further addressed the return of John Mahama and cited the appointment of Naana Opoku-Agyemang, particularly noting her record in the Education Ministry.

    “You’re bringing back the same old John Mahama, you’re bringing back the old Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s record in the Education ministry. Can she confirm her records to the records of Dr Bawumia,” he added.

    He questioned her ability to compare her accomplishments to those of Dr. Bawumia and challenged the opposition to present evidence of their achievements.


    In his concluding remarks, Afenyo-Markin confidently asserted, “Mr. Speaker, can your Naana Opoku Agyemang compare her records to Dr. Bawumia? Can your own John Mahama compare his records as president and vice-president to the records of Dr. Bawumia? No, he cannot.”

  • Reformation of homosexuals must be a priority to parliament – Ekow Assafuah

    Reformation of homosexuals must be a priority to parliament – Ekow Assafuah

    The Deputy Minister-designate for the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, Ekow Assafuah, has called on Parliament to focus on the rehabilitation of homosexuals rather than solely resorting to punitive measures.

    He emphasized that Parliament bears the responsibility of ensuring the reformation and seamless integration of individuals with different sexual orientations back into society.

    Expressing his support for the anti-LGBTQ+ bill during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee in Accra on March 11, 2024, Mr. Assafuah underscored his backing for the legislation, aligning it with his Catholic beliefs and cultural background.

    “In principle, the LGBTQ bill that has been passed or approved by Parliament is one that I support wholeheartedly because it is in consonance with my tradition and culture. It is in consonance with my formation as a catholic person or practising catholic,” he stated.

    While he endorsed the bill, which criminalizes and prohibits LGBTQ activities, he cautioned against merely isolating individuals with different sexual orientations, emphasizing the need for a more holistic approach to address the issue.

    The controversial bill, unanimously passed by Parliament on February 28, 2024, criminalizes and prohibits the promotion, advocacy, and funding of LGBTQ activities in the country.

    Mr. Assafuah, however, expressed reservations about the punitive measures outlined in the bill, advocating for a focus on reformative approaches to address the underlying issues.

    He stressed the importance of punishment being aligned with principles of reformation, urging Parliament to prioritize the responsibility of reforming individuals and reintegrating them into society.

    Mr. Assafuah rejected the notion of society giving in to despair and suggested that proper forums and engagements should be established to devise effective strategies for dealing with individuals with different sexual orientations, emphasizing Parliament’s role in fulfilling this responsibility.

    “There are reasons for punishment to be meted out to people. There is a principle behind punishment and one of the principles is to ensure that a person is being reformed out of a criminal activity. And so, if we have to reform persons, do we have to mete out punishment that seems to ostracise the person from society? It seems that as a society, we are bringing out our failures in the sense that we are showing our inability or incapacity to be able to reform people or if you like put people through sessions that reintroduce such persons into society. If we are not able to do so. That is where I see the failure,” he explained. 

    “It seems we are throwing our hands in despair. I am making a strong point that as a Parliament, we should be very interested in reforming our people. That is our responsibility as a people. We cannot say that there is a supposed anticipation of gay persons being lynched if they are given community service and so because of that as the people’s representatives we are throwing our hands in despair to allow such persons just to go astray.

    “That cannot be our course. Let’s have a proper forum, let’s have proper engagements to see how best we can deal with such persons. It is our responsibility to do so,” Mr Assafuah stated.

  • Video: Speaker halts proceedings over Afenyo-Markin’s verbal attack on Prof Opoku-Agyemang

    Video: Speaker halts proceedings over Afenyo-Markin’s verbal attack on Prof Opoku-Agyemang

    On March 11, the parliamentary debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) came to a standstill for an hour due to escalating tensions sparked by a statement from Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

    Afenyo-Markin’s remarks, wherein he referred to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) running mate, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, as an elderly individual who had failed as the Minister of Education, drew strong opposition from the Minority Caucus.

    This led to an immediate demand for a retraction and an apology.

    In his statement, Afenyo-Markin asserted, “Mr. Speaker, it is the same old NDC. It is the same old John Mahama. Mr. Speaker, perish the thought, should he even get the opportunity, he has only four years constitutionally. Mr. Speaker, there will be no sense of urgency in him because he has nothing to lose.”

    “Even if you look at his choice of running mate. He could not get somebody that one could say that they are planning for the future. The person is over 70 years old.

    “There is no succession plan. Mr Speaker, from day one, the government will be in crisis. Mr Speaker, they went to pick a very old person who could not perform at the Education Ministry.”

    He continued, criticizing the choice of a running mate and highlighting her age, claiming there was no succession plan. The Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Ahmed Ibrahim, responded with a spirited rebuttal.

    The exchange escalated, with MPs from the Minority bench loudly demanding a retraction and an apology from Afenyo-Markin, disrupting his ongoing submissions.

    The Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah Amoako, who presided over the session, eventually suspended proceedings for an hour in response to the escalating tension.

  • Our relationship with Ghana hasn’t changed despite passage of anti-LGBTQ+ bill – IMF

    Our relationship with Ghana hasn’t changed despite passage of anti-LGBTQ+ bill – IMF

    In light of the recent approval of the Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill by Parliament, the World Bank Group has asserted its enduring commitment to its longstanding partnership with Ghana.

    This statement is intended to address and dispel any speculations that the World Bank Group might reduce its support in terms of aid and development assistance to Ghana.

    There have been growing concerns about potential financial challenges for Ghana, especially with warnings from the Finance Ministry indicating a potential loss of over $3 billion in World Bank funding for various programs and projects if the bill becomes law.

    However, a spokesperson from the World Bank has clarified that the institution does not view the recently passed bill as a reason to alter its collaboration with Ghana on development programs.

    The spokesperson underscored the ongoing productivity of the partnership between the World Bank and the Republic of Ghana.

    “The World Bank Group has a longstanding and productive relationship with Ghana,” the spokesman said.

    Addressing inquiries regarding the Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, the World Bank stated its policy of refraining from commenting on specific legislation, especially one that has not been signed into law.

    “The Bill has not yet been signed into Law. We generally do not comment on Bills”.

    At present, it remains uncertain whether the World Bank will take any punitive measures if the bill is fully enacted.

  • Govt spent GHS33m in procuring past questions in 2020 – Education minister tells parliament

    Govt spent GHS33m in procuring past questions in 2020 – Education minister tells parliament

    The Minister of Education, Yaw Osei Adutwum, has defended the government’s decision to utilize sole-source procurement for acquiring past questions for Senior High School (SHS) students in 2020 and 2021.

    Revealed in 2020, the government reportedly disbursed over GH¢68.5 million to a supplier for materials distributed to SHS students ahead of the 2021 West African Senior High School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    Detailing the transaction in Parliament on March 4, 2024, the minister clarified that the government “procured 446,954 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) questions from Messrs Kingdom Books and Stationery at a unit price of GH¢78.00.”

    The procurement, he disclosed, was financed through the Free Senior High School account.

    “Mr. Speaker, in 2020, the government through its efforts to help students amidst COVID-19 to prepare for the 2020 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) procured 568,755 past questions for students to try their hands on before sitting for the actual exams.”

    He continued: “The Ministry of Education contracted Messrs Kingdom Books and Stationery to supply 568,755 WASSCE past questions at a contract price of GHS 33,641,043.75.

    “The procurement of these questions was funded through the Free Senior High School Account and the results of the 2020 WASSCE were tremendous compared to previous years’ WASSCE performance,” he stressed.

    The minister also gave updates on efforts to supply textbooks to basic schools: “Mr. Speaker, the procurement process for the supply of published textbooks to Basic Schools is currently ongoing.

    “The Ministry placed an advert in the Ghanaian Times on 1st June 2020, where various publishers approved by NaCCA, submitted their books and relevant documents to be taken through a Pre-Qualification procurement process,” he added.

    Additionally, the minister provided updates on the textbook supply efforts to basic schools: “The procurement process for the supply of published textbooks to Basic Schools is currently underway. The Ministry initiated the process on 1st June 2020, with various publishers approved by NaCCA submitting their books and relevant documents for a Pre-Qualification procurement process.”

  • Events at forecourt of State House disrupting Parliament’s work – Speaker fumes

    Events at forecourt of State House disrupting Parliament’s work – Speaker fumes

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed concern that events held at the forecourt of the State House are posing security threats to Members of Parliament, jeopardizing their ability to carry out their official duties safely.

    He raised these concerns during discussions with the top five schools that participated in the National Public Speaking Competition on Friday, March 1, 2024.

    “I’m sure when you were coming, you heard some noise outside. When we are busy doing our work, there are people outside who are permitted to come and make noise. By the time we go outside, they could have broken into our cars and stolen things. You talk to them; it is like they are deaf and dumb; they don’t hear. We are constrained to be able to function properly.”

    The Speaker also expressed concerns about the IMF’s role in Ghana’s economic downturn. His remarks followed the IMF’s statement regarding the passage of the anti-gay bill, where the IMF reiterated its stance against all forms of discrimination.

    The Speaker, in his response, said, “Anytime they want Ghana to falter and return to them, they will tell their small boys to come and misadvise us. When we do the wrong thing, and we collapse, they [IMF] say, aha! That is what they do to us. Ghana, we have been there 17 times; we have not solved our problems.”

  • No air, no help; my life was almost ended in parliament’s elevator – Staffer

    No air, no help; my life was almost ended in parliament’s elevator – Staffer

    On Thursday, February 29 2024, a parliamentary staff member shared a harrowing experience of almost collapsing in an elevator within the Job 600 building due to a power outage.

    The incident unfolded as both Parliament House and Job 600, the office complex for Members of Parliament (MPs), were affected by a power cut resulting from a GHc23 million debt.

    The disconnection, executed by the National Taskforce of the Electricity Company of Ghana on February 29, was part of the ongoing “Operation Zero Balance” initiative to address outstanding arrears.

    Fortunately, the distressed individual, concerned for their life, was rescued by colleagues and security personnel.

    Speaking anonymously to Citi News, the employee described being on the second floor when the lights went out on their way to the ninth floor.

    Despite unsuccessful attempts to contact engineers, the staff member managed to reach out to colleagues, who, along with security personnel, intervened.

    The employee highlighted the challenges faced during the ordeal, including struggles to open elevator doors and seeking assistance from passersby. The lack of air during the incident nearly led to fainting, underscoring the severity of the situation.

    “I went downstairs and when I was coming from down to the ninth floor, I think somewhere on the second floor the light went out so I got stuck in the elevator and I tried calling the engineers too, but it wasn’t going through.

    “The one I had too said he was at the annex. I called the other ones too still, they were taking time. So, I called my colleagues, and they came down there with the military guys and tried opening the gates so that at least I could take in some air. It is not a pleasant situation. I could see that I was passing out and I was out of air.”

    “But with the help of my colleagues and the security guards finally after about 30 minutes of being stuck there, they were able to open it and get me out of there. I was the only person in there.

    “Most of the time whenever I take the elevator I imagine being in the elevator and being stuck in it with no light in there how I will feel in there, I think today I have got to experience it but it is not a pleasant situation. It is just like you being locked up in a cell or something,” he said.

    Responding to the thoughts running through his during the ordeal, he noted “…Oh God I didn’t plan for this and I hope this is not going to be my last day but when I got my colleagues on the line I knew that in no time they will get me out of there.”

  • We don’t owe ECG – Parliament after ‘dumsor’ report

    We don’t owe ECG – Parliament after ‘dumsor’ report

    The Deputy Clerk of Corporate and Financial Management Services Division in Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, has refuted claims that Parliament is indebted to the tune of GH¢23 million to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

    On Thursday, February 29, 2024, there was a power outage in Parliament House and Job 600, the office complex for Members of Parliament, attributed to the purported GH¢23 million debt, as part of the ongoing “Operation Zero Balance” initiative by the ECG.

    In an interview with Citi News, Mr. Ahumah Djietror clarified that Parliament does not owe the stated amount, asserting that the house has been making payments. He acknowledged occasional discrepancies, citing failures in the ECG’s system to accurately record the payments.

    According to him, Parliament made a GH¢13 million payment on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, reducing the outstanding debt to approximately GH¢12 million.

    He emphasized that they possess records of all payments made as evidence.

    He said, “As far as we are concerned, we’ve made payment, all the payment we have made, some have not reflected in their system, that’s what I’m saying, some do not reflect in their system. We have a breakdown, so we showed it to the Deputy Managing Director, we are just coming from his office. I said they should reconcile the account. We are going to get the bank to extract all the payments we’ve made in terms of the dates. I’m not sure how it’s captured, so there’s a gap in terms of the reconciliation as to what is the outstanding bill.”

    Mr. Ahumah Djietror expressed the situation in Parliament as unfortunate and assured that efforts are underway to reconcile the accounts and settle the outstanding balance.

  • ECG disconnects power to parts of Parliament over GHC23m debt

    ECG disconnects power to parts of Parliament over GHC23m debt

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has halted power supply to Ghana’s Parliament House and Job 600, the office complex for Members of Parliament, due to an outstanding debt of GH¢23 million.

    The disconnection was carried out by the National Taskforce on Thursday, February 29, as part of the ongoing “Operation Zero Balance” initiative by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) task force.

    This initiative aims to recover outstanding debts from various customers.

    Efforts to collect the debt from the parliamentary facilities had been unsuccessful, leading to the disconnection. The disconnection highlights the challenges faced by the ECG in recovering debts and ensuring sustainable electricity supply in Ghana.

    Meanwhile, the country is also experiencing power cuts in parts of Ghana, including the capital city, Accra. Nana Amoasi IV, the Executive Director of the Institute for Energy Security (IES), has warned that these power cuts may continue unless immediate action is taken to address challenges related to installed capacity and fuel supply in the power sector.

    The ECG has not provided a clear explanation for the power outages or issued a load shedding timetable, causing disruptions in daily life for many residents.

  • Incessant financial requests from constituents making MPs corrupt – Cletus Avoka

    Incessant financial requests from constituents making MPs corrupt – Cletus Avoka

    Member of Parliament for Zebilla constituency, Cletus Avoka, attributed corruption within the Legislature to unreasonable demands imposed on lawmakers, particularly by the public and constituents.

    In a conversation with Starr FM, Avoka underscored the challenges faced by MPs due to incessant financial requests.

    He revealed that these demands make it practically impossible for MPs to refrain from engaging in corrupt activities.

    Mr Avoka highlighted that many MPs divert their focus from legislative duties to use their positions for business, driven by the constant financial pressures they face.

    He stressed the need for understanding from the media, emphasizing that requests for healthcare expenses, wedding contributions, and school fees contribute to the public’s perception of corruption.

    He described a scenario where MPs are inundated with financial requests daily, making it difficult for them to allocate funds after spending long hours in parliamentary debates.

    “If I’m not corrupt, how can I maintain my seat? You have to be corrupt in one way or another. You have to look for more resources. If you have to look for more resources, you have to go out and do some work for a contractor. As a lawyer, maybe prepare a bill, or do this and that and whatnot? So I have half attention here, and half attention outside because I need more resources to be able to maintain my seat.”

    Mr Avoka acknowledged that financial constraints often lead MPs to engage in external activities to generate income, supporting the assertion that such circumstances justify the perception that all MPs are corrupt.

    In response to whether this situation justifies labeling all MPs as corrupt, Mr Avoka affirmed that maintaining one’s seat often requires seeking additional resources, leading to engagement in external activities for income generation.

    He expressed the dilemma MPs face, needing to divide their attention between parliamentary responsibilities and external endeavors to meet the financial demands placed upon them.

    “Everyday MoMo. Everyday MoMo. Somebody is sick and has to go to the hospital, you have to send money, somebody is going to do a wedding you have to send money, they are going to do outdooring, they are asking for you. They are asking for school fees and whatnot.

    “Many of us lose the election or Primaries not because we are not doing well but because we’re not giving money out. How do you give money out if you come and stay in parliament for 8 hours debating? You’re debating for 5 or 8 hours, you go home in the evening to sleep, and the following day you have no money to send. You have to go out and look for the money.”

  • Parliament’s Standing Orders must be revised occasionally – Afenyo-Markin

    Parliament’s Standing Orders must be revised occasionally – Afenyo-Markin

    Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has advocated for the regular review of Parliament’s standing orders to bolster its oversight functions.

    The recently implemented standing orders, effective from January 2, 2024, aim to streamline Parliament‘s operational efficiency.

    During a capacity workshop on the updated standing orders, Afenyo-Markin underscored the significance of periodic reviews.

    He asserted that such reviews are crucial to align the rules governing parliamentary proceedings with the evolving dynamics in governance.

    “In order for the house to discharge our deliberative representational financial control, information dissemination, and legislative oversight and responsibilities efficiently and effectively, there is a need for these rules as contained in the standing orders to be revised.”

    “This is also to ensure that the rules governing proceedings, both at plenary and committees, are addressed with the changing dynamics in governance and the political environment.”

    In addition, Afenyo-Markin introduced a noteworthy addition in the new standing orders, known as ‘Backbenchers Time,’ with the aim of promoting inclusivity.

    This provision provides backbenchers, who typically have limited opportunities to express their views, a platform to articulate their perspectives and propose meaningful statements to enhance their legislative contributions.

  • Chairman of the Health Committee is obstructing Covid-19 expenditure investigation – Minority

    Chairman of the Health Committee is obstructing Covid-19 expenditure investigation – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has alleged that Dr. Ayew Afriyie, the chair of the Health Committee, is intentionally impeding a parliamentary investigation into the government’s COVID-19 expenditure.

    Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, assigned the Finance and Health Committees the responsibility of promptly examining the use of COVID-19 funds. This directive was issued in response to perceived irregularities in the management of COVID-19 funds, as highlighted by the Finance Minister on June 22, 2022.

    On February 21, the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, expressed concerns on the floor of Parliament, accusing the MP for Effiduase/Asokore of obstructing the investigation. According to Dr. Forson, the chairman of the joint committee, Ayew Afriyie, has not convened a meeting to address the matter, creating a sense of sabotage.

    Dr. Forson stated, “The chairman of the joint committee, Ayew Afriyie, has not called a meeting to sit on the matter. The ranking member cannot obviously call a meeting and it is only the chairman who can call the meeting. So we are sensing some form of sabotage.

    “There was a sub-committee that the joint committee formed and developed a guideline, and submitted it to the joint committee, which it accepted and as we speak, this matter has been delayed for almost eight months, and we cannot continue like this.”

  • ECG threatens to cut power supply to parliament over GHS23m debt

    ECG threatens to cut power supply to parliament over GHS23m debt

    The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is contemplating the suspension of power supply to the Parliament on Wednesday, February 21, citing an outstanding debt exceeding GH₵23 million.

    This prospective action is aligned with the ongoing “Operation Zero Balance” initiative, aimed at recovering unpaid debts from various customers. The decision to include Parliament in the disconnection targets has raised concerns, given its pivotal role in national governance.

    Sources suggest that the accumulated debt poses a substantial challenge to ECG’s operations, affecting its capacity to meet the demands of power producers.

    This potential move follows a recent disconnection at Accra Academy Senior High School on February 19 2024, where power was severed due to an outstanding debt of GH¢400,000.

  • Parliament’s move to use local languages during proceedings commendable – Franklin Cudjoe

    Parliament’s move to use local languages during proceedings commendable – Franklin Cudjoe

    President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has embraced Parliament’s initiative to encourage the use of local languages during its sessions.

    Cudjoe commended the idea of Members of Parliament expressing themselves in their native dialects, deeming it a commendable practice, especially as the assembly gears up to welcome new members.

    On February 16, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, directed committees on education, finance, culture, and tourism to investigate the factors contributing to the decline of local languages in the country.

    The aim is to propose recommendations to address this issue, prompted by concerns raised by MPs regarding the diminishing use of local languages, particularly in schools nationwide.

    Bagbin also disclosed plans for technological upgrades in the parliamentary chamber to facilitate the incorporation of local languages in future sessions.

    In a statement released on February 19, Cudjoe expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I was delighted to hear that Ghana’s Parliament will now allow the use of local languages in conducting business.”

    He speculated that this shift might be in anticipation of new members taking the place of experienced MPs proficient in parliamentary procedure and skilled in expressing themselves in English during debates.

    Mr Cudjoe envisioned the potential for MPs like Alexander Afenyo-Markin to deliver their initial remarks in Fante and Ewe.

    However, Mr Cudjoe underscored the irreplaceable position of the English language as a global communication tool.

    While endorsing the inclusion of local languages in internal communication systems, he emphasized the importance of being prepared to learn international languages for global relevance.

    Mr Cudjoe cited examples of others learning Chinese and Australian children learning Korean for economic reasons, highlighting the need to adapt to both local and international linguistic dynamics.

    READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW 

    I was delighted to hear that Ghana’s Parliament will now allow the use of local languages in conducting business.

    I remember as far back in July 2015, when the young and clever master of parliamentary procedure, Hon.Alexander kwamena Afenyo-Markin now Deputy Majority Leader, made a passionate appeal for the provision of facilities to encourage the use of local languages in parliament.

    In November 2015, Hon. fenyo-Markin again emphasized the urgency to allow MPs who felt comfortable making submissions in local languages be allowed. The situation had become critical against the background of grammatical errors made by two members of Parliament then, when reggae musician and radio show host, Blakk Rasta, appeared before the Parliamentary Select Committee on Privileges to interrogate the matter.

    The MP for Adentan at the time, “Mr Emmanuel Nii Ashie Moore, in a question to the Editor of the Searchlight newspaper, Mr Ken Kuranchie, asked: ” I will like to know from Mr Ken Kuranchie, in your paper, did you attributed (sic) the story to Adom FM online. Did you also spoke (sic) to Blakk Rasta?.”

    “The member for Effigya Sekyere East, Mr Henric David Yeboah, who filed the complaints with the House, also kept referring to Blakk Rasta as “Brack Rasta.” Since then, one news report said, “some radio presenters have played both voices on their stations and made humorous anecdotes of the errors to provoke laughter.” Hon. Afenyo-Markin then attempted to make his submission in the Fante language, arguing that one’s ability to speak fluent English wasn’t the yardstick of intelligence and wisdom.

    Today, with an activist Speaker of Parliament in Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, the stage is set for the adaptation of local languages in conducting Parliamentary business. It may well be timely as the House prepares to welcome many new entrants that will be replacing experienced MPs who were not just skilled in the art of Parliamentary procedure, but were able to communicate their positions during debates effortlessly in the English Language. It would be an admirable encounter to listen to Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin makes his preliminary remarks in Fante and Ewe when he becomes the Majority Leader in a few days. Even better it would have been if my SALL MP had been allowed to argue for a rehabilitation of very bad roads and schools in the Siwu or Sekpele language.

    However, it must be made clear that the English language is a universal language and can not be replaced. These days, others are learning Chinese in order to be part of the coming Chinese ‘ economic dragon’! While travelling in Australia , I enjoyed a discussion in the media about allowing Aussie kids to learn Korean! Yes, Korean! Reason? Not just for the fact that Australia may be closer to Korea, but mainly economic! So, there you have it! Adapt your internal communication systems to include local languages but also be prepared to learn international languages of the times, or you perish!

    I am looking for a great French, Spanish and Chinese teacher!

    Franklin Cudjoe!

  • Reassigned ministers must undergo parliamentary scrutiny – Dafeamekpor

    Reassigned ministers must undergo parliamentary scrutiny – Dafeamekpor

    The Minority in Parliament has insisted that all reassigned ministers must undergo vetting and approval by the Appointment Committee of Parliament.

    Opposition lawmakers have served notice of their intention to challenge the reassignments of five ministers at the Supreme Court, emphasizing the need for parliamentary scrutiny and approval in accordance with the constitution.

    South Dayi Member of Parliament, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, argued that the president revoked the appointments of the ministers in question, necessitating parliamentary scrutiny for their reassignments.

    He stated, “We are demanding that those five ministers he has reassigned must be subjected to parliamentary vetting, and that is the procedure, so they cannot escape parliamentary scrutiny.”

    If their demand is not met, the Minority vows to proceed to the Supreme Court for legal interpretation.

    President Akufo-Addo recently conducted a much-anticipated ministerial reshuffle, making changes ten months before the end of his tenure.

    The reshuffle included the removal of some ministers, such as Ken Ofori-Atta, and the reassignment of others like Kojo Oppong Nkrumah and Francis Asenso Boakye to different portfolios.

    See below:



    The reshuffle details were conveyed in a press release dated February 14, signed by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communication at the presidency. Arhin stated that the President expressed appreciation for the departing ministers’ commitment and hard work, wishing them well in their future endeavors.

  • Minority to challenge reassigned ministers’ validity at Supreme Court

    Minority to challenge reassigned ministers’ validity at Supreme Court

    The Minority in Parliament has declared its intention to take the matter to the Supreme Court if the five reassigned ministers are not brought before Parliament for screening.

    The Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, contended that since the president revoked the appointments of the ministers in question, their reassignment must undergo parliamentary scrutiny.

    Dafeamekpor stated in Parliament on Friday, “I am saying on the authority of the constitution that those persons’ appointments were revoked by the president, and their re-assignment must be subjected to parliamentary scrutiny.

    “So, we are demanding that those five ministers he has reassigned must be subjected to parliamentary vetting, and that is the procedure, so they cannot escape parliamentary scrutiny,” he said in Parliament on Friday.

    He added “We will do our duty as the constitution demands, and we will demand that their names be submitted to parliament for them to be vetted, and if this call is not heeded, we will proceed to the Supreme Court for legal interpretation.”

    President Akufo-Addo recently executed a ministerial reshuffle, ten months before the end of his tenure.

    While some ministers, including Ken Ofori-Atta, were dismissed, others like Kojo Oppong Nkrumah and Francis Asenso Boakye were reassigned to different portfolios.

    The reshuffle was announced in a press release dated February 14, signed by Eugene Arhin, the Director of Communication at the presidency. According to Arhin, the President expressed appreciation for the commitment and hard work of the departing ministers and wished them well in their future endeavors.

  • Parliament to speak local languages during sessions

    Parliament to speak local languages during sessions

    Parliament is set to introduce the use of local languages on the floor of the House to celebrate Ghanaian culture and prevent language extinction.

    According to Order 63 of the new Standing Orders, Members of Parliament (MPs) can employ any local language, with interpretation and translation provided for all to understand.

    This initiative is expected to commence during the second meeting of the fourth session of the Eighth Parliament.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, confirmed that necessary facilities, including translators and appropriate gadgets, would be put in place for a seamless implementation after the Easter break, pending any unforeseen challenges.

    The discussion on the use of local languages gained prominence during a parliamentary session when Second Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah presented a statement advocating for the promotion and preservation of the Nzema Language.

    Mr Buah emphasized the importance of incorporating local languages in basic school curricula to sustain interest and understanding.

    In response to these discussions, the Speaker directed the statement to be referred to the committees on Education, Culture, Tourism, and Finance.

    This referral aims to facilitate the Ghana Education Service’s exploration of integrating local languages into basic schools, fostering cultural promotion, and examining financial considerations.

    It is noteworthy that Parliament recently implemented new Standing Orders, including a daily roll call and the recitation of the national pledge, to enhance transparency, discipline, and patriotism among Members of Parliament.

  • Parliament to introduce local languages

    Parliament to introduce local languages

    Parliament is set to introduce the use of local languages on the floor of the House to promote Ghanaian culture and prevent its potential extinction.

    According to Order 63 of the new Standing Orders, a Member of Parliament (MP) may use any local language, subject to interpretation and translation for the understanding of all. This initiative is expected to commence during the second meeting of the fourth session of the Eighth Parliament.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, assured that necessary facilities, including translators and appropriate gadgets, would be put in place for a smooth implementation. The planned launch is expected to occur after the Easter break, pending any unforeseen challenges.

    Statement and Contributions

    The discussion on the use of local languages gained prominence in Parliament when the Second Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, presented a statement advocating for the promotion and preservation of the Nzema Language.

    Mr Buah, also the National Democratic Congress MP for Ellembele in the Western Region, highlighted the decline in interest in teaching and learning the Nzema language in educational institutions despite its inclusion in the curriculum.

    This prompted members to call for the use of local languages in basic schools to enhance language promotion and better understanding of various subjects. They proposed that science subjects, including chemistry, could be taught in local languages, akin to practices in the Asia Tigers.

    Direction and Referral

    In response, the Speaker directed that the statement be referred to the committees on Education, Culture, Tourism, and Finance for a decision. This referral aims to encourage the Ghana Education Service to embrace the concept of using local languages in basic schools, promoting Ghanaian culture and tourism, and considering financial implications.

    Recall and Implementation of New Standing Orders

    Parliament, upon reconvening on February 6, 2024, began implementing its new Standing Orders. The introduced changes include a daily roll call of members and the recitation of the national pledge.

    These measures, captured in Orders 14 and other relevant sections, seek to ensure a credible attendance record, instil discipline, and promote a sense of duty among MPs.

    The new Standing Orders replace the old ones, which had been in place since 2006. The Speaker clarified that the oral roll call does not negate the signing of attendance books in the chamber or at the committee level.

  • Parliament to investigate debt owed cocoa roads contractors 

    Parliament to investigate debt owed cocoa roads contractors 

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has unveiled plans to establish a high-powered committee to investigate the issue of unpaid arrears to cocoa road contractors.

    Bagbin revealed that he has received numerous petitions from both cocoa road contractors and contractors associated with the Roads and Highways Ministry concerning the government’s prolonged delay in disbursing their outstanding payments.

    The Concerned Cocoa Road Contractors Association of Ghana has expressed frustration over the government’s failure to settle debts owed to them for their work on various roads throughout the nation.

    Bagbin proposed the formation of a committee to thoroughly investigate the matter and emphasised the importance of enhanced collaboration between both parliamentary caucuses in addressing this issue.

    “I have received many petitions from contractors regarding non-payment of their labour, a lot of arrears from both COCOBOD and Roads and Highways. In fact, I propose setting up a high-powered committee to investigate that matter because it is very important.”

  • Absenteeism forced parliament to introduce new Standing Orders – ACEPA

    Absenteeism forced parliament to introduce new Standing Orders – ACEPA

    Executive Director of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), Rasheed Draman, has indicated that the newly introduced Standing Orders in parliament  is a response to the challenges of absenteeism and the lack of quorum experienced during sessions.

    In an interview with TV3 he stated that the roll call is positioned as a crucial tool to promote transparency and curb absenteeism, ultimately contributing to the overall integrity of parliamentary proceedings.

    He stated that under this approach, the roll is called, requiring every member to respond. 

    According to him in cases where a member is absent, the standing orders permit the transfer of voting rights to another member on matters before the house. 

    … the roll is called and everybody has to respond and if you are not there eerrm, whoever for instance the standing orders is allowed for you to give your vote to somebody on a matter that is before the house all those are mentioned during the roll call,” he added.

    Rasheed Draman emphasized the significance of addressing these issues during the roll call, providing a systematic method to manage the challenges faced by the parliamentary body.

    Mr Draman expressed the frustration associated with absenteeism and the repercussions of inadequate quorum in parliamentary proceedings.

     He advocated for a consistent adherence to the roll call, acknowledging that while it may be time-consuming to mention the names of all 275 members, the benefits of bringing order and accountability to the house outweigh the time investment.

    “Look we have been dealing with this issue of absenteeism and the frustrations with lack of quorum in the house over the days. If I am to advise the right honorable Speaker I will say let’s stick to this roll call because I mean it might take time but I guess mentioning the names of 275 members will take more than 15 to 20 minutes doing that will bring sanity to the house,” he stated.

    As the new Standing Orders come into effect, they aim to instill discipline and responsibility among parliamentarians, ensuring that the house functions efficiently and effectively. 

    On Tuesday, February 6, a notable change took effect in parliamentary proceedings as members kicked off sessions by reciting the National Pledge.

  • Nationalism and Patriotism must begin from parliament – Majority leader justifies decision for MPs to recite National Pledge

    Nationalism and Patriotism must begin from parliament – Majority leader justifies decision for MPs to recite National Pledge

    The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has offered justification for the commencement of parliamentary sessions with the recitation of the National Pledge.

    He emphasized the need to instill a sense of patriotism and nationalism in the citizens, stating that beginning this practice in the legislature is crucial.

    “You travel to some places, you go to the US, Canada, UK, Switzerland, Germany, everywhere you go on, they will hoist the national flag but it has not been part of us.

    “Even though we believe it is late but better late than never, we must inculcate into ourselves nationalism and patriotism and where else to begin this exercise is the House of the representative of this country so that is why we want to do what we want to do,” he told Johnnie Hughes on the Sunrise show on 3FM Wednesday, February 7.

    In an interview with Johnnie Hughes on the Sunrise show on 3FM, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu highlighted the absence of the tradition of hoisting the national flag in various places, contrasting it with international norms.

    Despite acknowledging the belated introduction of this practice, he stressed the importance of fostering nationalism and patriotism, identifying the House of Representatives as an ideal starting point for such initiatives.

    The decision to incorporate the National Pledge into parliamentary sessions followed a modification of the Standing Orders.

    While the immediate reason for this decision remains unclear, the wording of the National Pledge emphasizes citizens’ commitment to being faithful and loyal to Ghana.

    Additionally, under the revised Standing Orders, independent bodies like the Electoral Commission, CHRAJ boss, BoG governor, NCCE, and the Auditor General will be subject to questioning similar to ministers.

    The Deputy Minority Whip in Parliament, Ahmed Ibrahim, clarified these modifications, highlighting that independent bodies would now face interrogation by committees, allowing for a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to questioning and accountability.

  • Ghana’s parliament is one of three countries in the world with highest attrition rate – Majority Leader

    Ghana’s parliament is one of three countries in the world with highest attrition rate – Majority Leader

    Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has disclosed that the country ranks among the top three nations globally with the highest attrition rate in its legislature.

    Expressing concern over the departure of experienced lawmakers either voluntarily or through electoral defeat, the Majority Leader emphasized that this characterization has subjected Ghana to global ridicule, prompting reflections on the impact of such a trend on the nation’s international reputation.

    “I am very much worried. Let us face it, we are becoming a laughing stock in the world because as I said, Ghana is one of three countries in the world with the highest attrition rate in our parliament, it is not a good description at all,” the Suame lawmaker who is also exiting Parliament voluntarily told Johnnie Hughes on the Sunrise show on 3FM Wednesday February 7.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, also shared apprehensions about the exit of seasoned Members of Parliament from the House. Notable departures include First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei Owusu, Cletus Avoka, ABA Fuseini, and Edward Bawa.

    Speaking in Parliament, Speaker Bagbin highlights the loss of 28 MPs through the NPP primaries and an additional 17 MPs through the NDC primaries.

    He emphasized the negative implications of voluntary discontinuance and deselection, stating that such occurrences are not favorable for the legislature and Ghana’s democratic development.

    Bagbin called for serious consideration by political parties, stressing the importance of experience in the House and the substantial investment made in each MP by the nation.

    “Honourable members, the primaries are part of the process for the electorates to determine who represents them in parliament. But the case of voluntary discontinuance of five and 19, followed by deselection of 17 and 28, is not a good signal for the legislature and for Ghana’s democratic development. Experience, as we all know, counts in this House, but the endorsement of your party is equally important.”

    He added “Honourable members, the haemorrhage and cost to the nation, however, are matters of great concern worth considering by all stakeholders, and I want to appeal to the political parties to take this up seriously, because the investment that is made in an individual MP is so huge for the nation just to go to waste after every four years.”

  • Ghana’s parliament is becoming a laughing stock in the world – Majority Leader

    Ghana’s parliament is becoming a laughing stock in the world – Majority Leader

    The Majority Leader in Parliament, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has expressed concern over the significant departure of experienced lawmakers from parliament, whether voluntarily or through electoral defeat in their respective primaries.

    He notes that Ghana is currently recognized as one of the three countries globally with a high attrition rate in its parliament, a characterization that invites global ridicule.

    Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who is voluntarily exiting Parliament, voiced his worries on the Sunrise show on 3FM, emphasizing the negative impact on Ghana’s international reputation.

    “I am very much worried. Let us face it, we are becoming a laughing stock in the world because as I said, Ghana is one of three countries in the world with the highest attrition rate in our parliament, it is not a good description at all,” the Suame lawmaker who is also exiting Parliament voluntarily told Johnnie Hughes on the Sunrise show on 3FM Wednesday February 7.

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, also shared apprehensions about the exit of seasoned Members of Parliament from the House.

    Notable departures include First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei Owusu, Cletus Avoka, ABA Fuseini, and Edward Bawa.

    Speaking in Parliament, Speaker Bagbin highlights the loss of 28 MPs through the NPP primaries and an additional 17 MPs through the NDC primaries.

    He emphasized the negative implications of voluntary discontinuance and deselection, stating that such occurrences are not favorable for the legislature and Ghana’s democratic development.

    Bagbin called for serious consideration by political parties, stressing the importance of experience in the House and the substantial investment made in each MP by the nation.

    “Honourable members, the primaries are part of the process for the electorates to determine who represents them in parliament. But the case of voluntary discontinuance of five and 19, followed by deselection of 17 and 28, is not a good signal for the legislature and for Ghana’s democratic development. Experience, as we all know, counts in this House, but the endorsement of your party is equally important.”

    He added “Honourable members, the haemorrhage and cost to the nation, however, are matters of great concern worth considering by all stakeholders, and I want to appeal to the political parties to take this up seriously, because the investment that is made in an individual MP is so huge for the nation just to go to waste after every four years.”

  • MPs to kick off sessions with roll call and National Pledge recitation

    MPs to kick off sessions with roll call and National Pledge recitation

    Beginning today, Tuesday, February 6, a notable change will take effect in parliamentary proceedings as members will kick off sessions by reciting the National Pledge.

    This marks the implementation of the new standing orders, bringing forth a significant alteration in the parliamentary protocol.

    Under the revised standing orders, heads of state institutions will now be required to personally appear before Parliament to address inquiries related to their agencies.

    This departure from the previous standing orders, which allowed Ministers of State to represent the heads of institutions during questioning, represents a fundamental shift in the parliamentary approach.

    As part of the procedural changes, Members of Parliament will undergo a roll call and actively participate in reciting the national pledge at the commencement of proceedings.

    Ahmed Ibrahim, the First Deputy Minority Whip in Parliament, provided insights into these modifications, underscoring that independent bodies such as the Electoral Commission, CHRAJ boss, BoG governor, NCCE, and the Auditor General will now undergo questioning akin to ministers on the parliamentary floor.

    He stated, “Independent bodies like the Electoral Commission, the CHRAJ boss, the BoG governor, NCCE, and the Auditor General are going to be questioned just as we question ministers on the Floor and the mode of answering questions on the Floor has also been provided in the new Standing Orders.

    “Previously, if you wanted to invite the EC, they would say he had no audience on the Floor and if the Common Fund administrator needed to come unless the discussion was led by the Minister but this time around, it is not going to be the same.

    “The administrator can come and be interrogated by a committee and can be asked questions and he will respond to the questions and the mode of answering the questions has been catered for in the new Standing Orders.”

    Ibrahim emphasized that the new standing orders facilitate a more direct engagement with officials from independent bodies, allowing them to be questioned by parliamentary committees, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability in the parliamentary process.

  • Parliament reconvenes today

    Parliament reconvenes today

    Today, Tuesday, February 6, 2024, Parliament is set to convene its initial session of the fourth term, with a total of 82 Bills anticipated for presentation, according to an official statement released on February 5, 2024.

    Among the bills to be deliberated upon are the Aged Persons Bill, 2023; Advertising Council Bill, 2023; Consumer Protection Bill, 2023; Public University Bill, and the 2023 Ghana Road Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

    Additionally, the House will address twelve (12) bills currently under committee review, including the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Bill, 2023 (Committee on Gender and Children) and the Social Protection Bill, 2023 (Committee on Gender and Children).

    Private member’s bills, namely the Office of the Special Prosecutor (Amendment) Bill, 2021, and Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2023, will also be addressed before the House enters recess in preparation for the upcoming general elections.

  • Parliament set to reconvene on February 6

    Parliament set to reconvene on February 6

    Parliament is set to reconvene for the Fourth Session on February 6, 2024.

    The Fourth Session was adjourned sine die for the Christmas and New Year break on Saturday, December 23, 2023, after the passage of the Appropriation Bill for the fiscal year ending on December 31, 2023.

    Originally, the Third Meeting of the Third Session of the Eighth Parliament was intended to adjourn sine die on Friday, December 22, for the Christmas festivities. However, the all-night sitting extended into the early hours of Saturday, December 23.

    In a statement dated January 17, Speaker Mr. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin announced the resumption date, declaring Parliament House, Accra, as the venue and Ten O’clock in the forenoon of Tuesday, February 6, 2024, as the official start time for the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament of the Fourth Republic.

  • Ghana’s parliament takes center stage on the world platform – Bagbin

    Ghana’s parliament takes center stage on the world platform – Bagbin


    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin lauds Ghana’s parliamentary achievements and calls for concerted efforts to safeguard and enhance the nation’s democracy.

    In his Christmas message, Bagbin emphasizes the pivotal role of partnerships between political parties, the media, civil society organizations (CSOs), and traditional leaders in sustaining 30 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.

    He urged the continuation and strengthening of these partnerships, emphasizing the need for every sector, including the state, private sector, and CSOs, to be fortified.

    Bagbin proudly highlights Ghana’s global leadership in parliamentary affairs, chairing the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and presiding over the Conference of Speakers and Heads of Parliament Africa.

    “we have, as a nation, been able to stay the course, 30 continuous uninterrupted democratic rule because of the partnership between not just the political parties alone but the media, CSOs, and our traditional leaders.

    “I think it is important we continue this partnership, strengthening it and in fact, making sure that every organ of the state, private sector, and CSO is strengthened.”

    He added “30 years is a great achievement. Ghana has made it globally, your parliament now leads the Parliamentary Community in the world, we chair and preside over the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association made up of 182 parliaments of the world, and we chair and preside over the Conference of Speakers and Heads of Parliament Africa, and we are in the leadership of the World Parliament, now called the Interparliamentary Union.

    “By virtue of a number of decisions and laws passed by Parliament, we are now a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council. As you all know, we also sit at the Security Council, so Ghana is now in its rightful place as the heart of the world.

    “This is an achievement that we should be proud of and we should do everything we can to deepen the democratic culture and inspire the challenges we are facing.”

    He noted Ghana’s leadership in the World Parliament, now known as the Interparliamentary Union.

    Additionally, Bagbin underscores the nation’s membership in the United Nations Human Rights Council and participation in the Security Council, solidifying Ghana’s position as a global leader.

    Celebrating Ghana’s achievements, Bagbin urges national pride and a collective commitment to deepening the democratic culture.

    He encouraged tackling challenges with inspiration drawn from the nation’s accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of preserving and strengthening democratic values in the face of adversity.

  • Parliament adjourns sine die

    Parliament adjourns sine die


    Parliament adjourned sine die for Christmas and New Year after passing 2024 Appropriation Bill

    Parliament wrapped up its Third Meeting of the Eighth Parliament with an all-night sitting, concluding on December 23, as opposed to the initial plan to adjourn on December 22 for the Christmas break.

    The session concluded with the passage of the Appropriation Bill for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024.

    In his closing remarks, delivered by First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu, Speaker Alban Bagbin reminded MPs of their role as ambassadors of Parliamentary democracy.

    He urged them to engage in local Parliamentary diplomacy to strengthen the bond between Parliament and citizens. Bagbin advised MPs to prioritize safety during the holidays and reflect on the significance of Christmas.

    Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu expressed gratitude to MPs for their dedication to parliamentary business during the Third Session.

    He acknowledged differences but emphasized the democratic value of agreeing to disagree.

    The Majority Leader commended the Speaker and deputies for maintaining decorum and urged MPs to rest during the recess.

    Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah commended MPs for their dedication, especially Minority Members. He expressed pride in their commitment to the people of Ghana.

    “Mr Speaker, your commitment and dedication to your constitutional mandate in steering the affairs of the House is not lost on me,” the Majority Leader said.

    “I have sometimes disagreed with you on matters of policy and sometimes even the interpretation of the Standing Orders and Constitution. But that is the hallmark of democracy: agreeing to disagree.”

    “Mr Speaker, I cannot express my appreciation enough to you and your able deputies for your management of the House, even when the House had to sit during weekends.”

    The Minority thanked the Speaker for guiding the House successfully. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year, Buah urged caution on the roads.

  • 5 more taxes were approved by parliament to sponsor Akufo-Addo’s flashy spending in 2024 – IMANI Africa

    5 more taxes were approved by parliament to sponsor Akufo-Addo’s flashy spending in 2024 – IMANI Africa

    Ghana’s Parliament has granted approval for five new taxes, raising concerns about potential economic challenges in the upcoming year.

    The Founding President and Chief Executive Officer of IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, Franklin Cudjoe, has expressed worry, cautioning Ghanaians to prepare for increased economic hardships following the parliamentary approvals.

    Known for his outspoken views on policy matters, Mr Cudjoe referred to President Akufo-Addo as “big daddy” in a Facebook post, suggesting that the sanctioned taxes are intended to support extravagant spending in 2024, an election year.

    In his post, Cudjoe remarked, “Parliament on Friday night approved 5 more taxes to help Nana Addo’s Big Daddy state splash out big time in 2024 – an election year – inflicting more economic pain.”

    The controversial decision also encompasses a range of ambiguous tax exemptions, excluding agricultural inputs.

    Cudjoe justified this exclusion by highlighting the persistent high food inflation, stating, “A reduction in food inflation will see overall inflation reduced to manageable limits by mid-2024.”

    Expressing confidence in the Agriculture Minister’s ability to prevent fertilizer misuse, Mr Cudjoe added, “A reduction in food inflation will see overall inflation reduced to manageable limits by mid-2024.”

    “I am hopeful the current Agric Minister will rely on his precocious security background to ensure fertilizers do not end up on donkeys carted away to Togo and Burkina as happened under his predecessor.”

    Scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2024, the approved taxes will further burden citizens and businesses financially.

    Cudjoe concluded his post with a cautionary quote from the famous American lawyer Gideon Tucker: “No man’s life, liberty or property are safe while the Legislature is in session.”

    “And Ghana’s Parliament decided to impose these taxes at night, so spend wisely this Christmas,” he emphasized.

  • GHS259.05bn approved for 2024 budget by parliament

    GHS259.05bn approved for 2024 budget by parliament

    On Saturday, December 23, 2023, Parliament approved the Appropriation Bill, 2023, allowing the Government to access GH¢259.05 billion from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds for its expenditures in the 2024 financial year.

    The Bill’s primary purpose is to facilitate appropriation for the year 2024, as mandated by the constitutional requirement outlined in paragraph (a) of clause (2) of Article 179.

    This article stipulates that estimates of public office expenditures must be included in an Appropriation Bill introduced in Parliament, authorizing the release of funds from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds to cover Government expenses.

    In line with the constitutional provision, an amount not exceeding GH¢259.05 billion is mandated to be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds throughout the financial year commencing on January 1, 2024, and concluding on December 31, 2024.

    These funds will be allocated for the purposes specified in the First Schedule, corresponding to the Third and Fourth Schedules, representing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, along with Other Government Obligations and their respective programs.

    Furthermore, the Bill grants specific Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) the authority to retain and utilize GH¢12.33 billion during the financial year spanning from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.

    Addressing the disbursement of funds on the Finance Minister’s authorization, the Bill specifies that the Controller and Accountant-General can disburse any sum not exceeding GH¢259.05 billion from the Consolidated Fund and other public funds during the financial year concluding on December 31, 2024, based on a warrant issued by the Minister responsible for Finance.

  • Parliament approves over GH¢2b for state funerals, Independence Day, Peduase Lodge, others

    Parliament approves over GH¢2b for state funerals, Independence Day, Peduase Lodge, others

    Parliament has approved the 2024 Budget Estimates of the Office of Government Machinery, amounting to two billion and seventy-four million, eight hundred and twenty-seven thousand, one hundred and sixty-four Ghana Cedis (GH¢2,074,827,164.00) for the 2024 financial year.

    The approval was based on the report of the Finance Committee, chaired by Kwaku Kwarteng, which was presented to the plenary on Wednesday, December 20, 2023.

    The report noted that the National Identification Authority (NIA) has been allocated an amount of GH¢308,944,822 for its operation in 2024, but this does not include payments arising out of the Government and Support Agreement (GSA) for the Ghana-Card project.

    The Committee urged the Ministry of Finance to make projections for payments that may arise out of the GSA and allocate them to the NIA, to give a clear picture of the government’s commitments to the partnership and expenditure on the project.

    The report also outlined the activities that the Office of the President and its agencies will implement in 2024, which include:

    • Celebrating Ghana’s 67th Independence Anniversary and 2024 Founders Day
    • Maintaining the Jubilee House, Peduase Lodge and six other lodges
    • Supporting state and state assisted funerals
    • Hosting Heads of State and other foreign senior government officials
    • Organising Cabinet meetings and retreats

    The report also highlighted the activities of the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA), which will construct and complete sustainable, climate smart irrigation systems to cover an area of 7,000 acres at Kasunya.

    The Authority will operationalise all anchor farmers by April, 2024, and train and enable 500 youth farmers, as well as construct accommodation for 300 youth farmers.

    At the Banda Enclave, the Authority will clear and develop 6,000 acres of land for cultivation of various commodities, set up irrigation systems and engage prospective anchor farmers. It will also construct equipment shed and warehousing facilities.

    At the Kumawu Enclave, the Authority will clear and develop 10,000 acres of land for production. It will also set up irrigation systems and engage prospective anchor farmers. It will also construct equipment shed and warehousing facilities.

    In the area of the Public Sector Reform, the Secretariat will pursue actions towards the review of the National Public Sector Reform Strategy (NPSRS) and the implementation of the Public Sector Reform for Results Project (PSRRP).

    It will also continue to coordinate the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Initiatives through a number of activities, including:

    • Printing OGP 5th National Action Plan
    • Organising Sectorial Engagements with Implementation Agencies and key stakeholders to disseminate the 5th OGP Action Plan
    • Organising monitoring and feedback sessions with Implementing Agencies

  • Payment of December salary may delay – Parliament tells staff

    Payment of December salary may delay – Parliament tells staff

    As the Christmas holiday approaches, officers of the Parliamentary Service have been informed that there might be a delay in the payment of their December salaries.

    The Parliamentary Service has not yet received the transfer notification for December salaries as of December 20, 2023.

    In a notice signed by Daniel T. Chirawura, Director of Finance, officers were notified that the salaries for December may not be disbursed before the Christmas holidays.

    However, the Parliamentary Service has made financial arrangements to provide support to officers, and this assistance will be available before the House rises on December 22, 2023.

    The notice expresses appreciation to the officers for their patience and understanding during this period.

    “Consequently, Officers of the Service may not be paid their salaries for the month of December before the Christmas holidays.

    “Given the circumstances, the Service has made the necessary financial arrangements to cushion Officers during the Christmas holidays. The support will be made available to Officers before the House rises on 22nd December 2023,” a notice signed by Daniel T. Chirawura, Director of Finance said.

  • Lack of funds for Special Schools must be addressed immediately – Parliament to Ofori-Atta

    Lack of funds for Special Schools must be addressed immediately – Parliament to Ofori-Atta

    Parliament has called upon the Finance Ministry to reconsider the allocation of funds within the education sector, urging a redirection of resources from the non-formal education sector to address challenges facing Special Education in the country.

    Expressing dissatisfaction during a debate on the approval of 29.5 billion Ghana Cedis for the Education Ministry, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader, highlighted the inadequacy of the GHS600,000 funds allocated for special schools, including the Akuapim School for the Deaf and the Akropong School for the Blind.

    “Even though the ministry has been allocated GHS29.5 billion, only GHS673,429, which is under 1 million, has been allocated to special education. Mr. Speaker, special education is something that we need to take quite seriously as a country,” he emphasized.

    Dr. Ato Forson urged the Ministry of Finance to consider reallocating funds to ensure adequate coverage for schools catering to students with special needs.

    The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, echoed these concerns, appealing to the government to prioritize special education over non-formal education.

    “I don’t want to believe that it is a typo error. We need to spend more on the special schools, not the non-formal education. So I will want to plead that if we can do a reallocation from the non-formal education to the special schools, it should be done,” he stated.

  • Vetting of Supreme Court nominees scheduled for December 20

    Vetting of Supreme Court nominees scheduled for December 20

    Parliament is gearing up for a public hearing vetting to consider nominees appointed by the President to fill vacant positions on the Supreme Court bench.

    In a communication addressed to the House, the President put forward three justices currently serving on the Court of Appeal for elevation to the Supreme Court. The nominated justices are Henry Anthony Kwofie, Yaw Darko Asare, and Richard Adjei-Frimpong.

    The Appointments Committee, led by the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu, will oversee the vetting process and present a report to the plenary for further consideration.

    President Akufo-Addo, in a letter to Parliament dated October 11, 2023, underscored the urgency of filling the vacancies resulting from the retirement of some members on the bench.