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Tag: Speaker

  • Speaker petitioned by Minority to intervene in arrest of Ntim Fordjour over drug trafficking claims

    Speaker petitioned by Minority to intervene in arrest of Ntim Fordjour over drug trafficking claims

    The Minority in Parliament has urged Speaker Alban Bagbin to act swiftly to uphold constitutional provisions and parliamentary protocols in the wake of an attempt to arrest the Assin South Member of Parliament (MP), Reverend John Ntim Fordjour.

    According to the Minority, the attempted arrest of the MP by operatives of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) at his residence on April 9 was conducted without adherence to the laid-down procedures required when engaging with sitting Members of Parliament.

    The attempted arrest is linked to ongoing investigations into suspected drug trafficking and money laundering activities involving two international flights that passed through Ghana in March.

    On Wednesday, members of the Minority Caucus trooped into the residence of Rev Fordjour to thwart efforts by the NIB to pick up the legislator.

    The planned arrest of Rev. John Ntim Fordjour was suspended after Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin intervened, according to Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, the National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).

    Mr Vanderpuye explained that Afenyo-Markin had personally requested National Security to delay the arrest and offered to present Fordjour to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) by 10:00 a.m on Thursday. This claim is yet to be dismissed or corroborated by the Minority Leader.

    According to Mr Vanderpuye, failure to comply would result in Ntim Fordjour being forcibly taken from his residence by security forces. However, the deadline elapsed, and there are no reports of Rev. Fordjour’s arrest.

    Rev. John Ntim Fordjour has condemned the recent presence of National Investigations Bureau (NIB) operatives at his home, calling it a “lawless act” aimed at intimidating him.

    Prior to the attempted arrest, Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, revealed that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has not yet granted approval for the release of Assin South Member of Parliament, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, to assist in investigations into alleged drug trafficking and money laundering.

    The Ghanaian Constitution grants MPs certain legal protections, necessitating the Speaker’s approval before they can be engaged on specific matters.

    Less than a week ago, Speaker Alban Bagbin gave the green light for two Members of Parliament (MP)—Mustapha Yussif, MP for Yagaba Kubori, and Kwame Asare Obeng (A-Plus), MP for Gomoa Central—to engage with officials from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) as part of an ongoing investigation.

    A statement signed by the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, outlined that while the Speaker has permitted the interaction, strict conditions have been set to uphold parliamentary privileges.

    Citing Articles 117 and 118 of the 1992 Constitution, Bagbin directed that the meeting be held within Parliament’s premises. The meeting was scheduled for Monday, April 7, at 10:00 AM, inside the Sir Emmanuel Charles Quist Conference Room at the Office of the Speaker.

    Additionally, both MPs were advised to ensure legal representation during the session, while NIB officials were required to liaise with Parliament’s Legal Services Office upon arrival.

    In recognition of the power’s of the Speaker of Parliament, the Minority has called on Speaker Bagbin to assert his authority to prevent any recurrence of what they described as a breach of parliamentary sanctity.

  • Speaker yet to approve interrogation of Fordjour by NIB – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

    Speaker yet to approve interrogation of Fordjour by NIB – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

    Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has revealed that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has not yet granted approval for the release of Assin South Member of Parliament, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, to assist in investigations into alleged drug trafficking and money laundering.

    Speaking during an interview on Face to Face on Channel One TV, Kwakye Ofosu explained that the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) had officially written to the Speaker seeking permission to question the legislator. However, as of now, the Speaker’s response is still pending.

    “The NIB wrote to the Speaker to release Ntim Fordjour. The Speaker is yet to respond to the NIB, as far as I am aware. Anytime the Speaker responds to it, he will be available for questions,” he said.

    The investigation follows claims made by Rev. Ntim Fordjour that two aircraft recently arrived in Ghana allegedly carrying illicit drugs and large sums of cash. According to the Minister, the MP has not yet honored requests by security agencies to provide further information on the allegations.

    Kwakye Ofosu further stressed the need for openness in the ongoing probe, calling for the lawmaker’s questioning to be made public.

    “I have requested that the interrogation be released to the public,” he added.

    The situation has sparked widespread public interest, with many observers calling for swift action to ensure accountability and transparency.

    Less than a week ago, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin gave the green light for two Members of Parliament (MP)—Mustapha Yussif, MP for Yagaba Kubori, and Kwame Asare Obeng (A-Plus), MP for Gomoa Central—to engage with officials from the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) as part of an ongoing investigation.

    A statement signed by the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, outlined that while the Speaker has permitted the interaction, strict conditions have been set to uphold parliamentary privileges.

    Citing Articles 117 and 118 of the 1992 Constitution, Bagbin directed that the meeting be held within Parliament’s premises. The meeting was scheduled for Monday, April 7, at 10:00 AM, inside the Sir Emmanuel Charles Quist Conference Room at the Office of the Speaker.

    Additionally, both MPs were advised to ensure legal representation during the session, while NIB officials were required to liaise with Parliament’s Legal Services Office upon arrival.

    The Ghanaian Constitution grants MPs certain legal protections, necessitating the Speaker’s approval before they can be engaged on specific matters. As of now, details regarding the specific nature of the investigation remain undisclosed.

    Immunity from Service of Process and Arrest (Article 117):

    “Civil or criminal process coming from any court or place outside Parliament shall not be served on, or executed in relation to, the Speaker or a member or the Clerk to Parliament while he is on his way to, attending, or returning from any proceedings of Parliament.”

    Immunity from Witness Summons (Article 118):

    (1) Neither the Speaker, nor a member of, nor the Clerk to, Parliament shall be compelled, while attending Parliament, to appear as a witness in any court or place outside Parliament.

    (2) The certificate of the Speaker that a member or the Clerk is attending the proceedings of Parliament is conclusive evidence of attendance at Parliament.

  • Members of 9th Parliamentary Service Board

    Members of 9th Parliamentary Service Board

    The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has officially inaugurated the 9th Parliamentary Service Board, urging its members to uphold transparency, foster bipartisan cooperation, and ensure responsive governance.

    Addressing the newly constituted Board, Speaker Bagbin emphasized its crucial role in strengthening the legislative arm of government, enhancing institutional integrity, and maintaining public trust in Parliament. He highlighted the need for effective collaboration to tackle national challenges through a strong and accountable parliamentary framework.

    Composition of the 9th Parliamentary Service Board

    The Board, chaired by Speaker Bagbin, comprises the following members:

    • Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror – Clerk to Parliament
    • Mahama Ayariga – MP for Bawku Central and Majority Leader
    • Alexander Afenyo-Markin – MP for Effutu and Minority Leader
    Alexander Afenyo-Markin
    • Angela Oforiwa Alorwu-Tay – Former MP for Afadjato South
    Angela Oforiwa Alorwu-Tay
    • Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah – Former MP for New Juaben South
    Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah

    Additionally, the First and Second Deputy Speakers of Parliament are part of the Board. Two MPs—Hon. Bernard Ahiafor (MP for Akatsi South) and Hon. Andrew Asiamah (MP for Fomena and Second Deputy Speaker)—have been co-opted as members.

    Bernard Ahiafor
  • We will get to a ‘paperless’ Parliament in the near future – Speaker

    We will get to a ‘paperless’ Parliament in the near future – Speaker

    Speaker Alban Bagbin is optimistic about Parliament becoming a fully digitalized state institution.

    According to the Speaker, during sitting on Tuesday, March 11, the current infrastructure used by the House, built in the 1900s, is fraught with many challenges that make it difficult for Parliament to operate in a ‘paperless’ manner.

    When the Member of Parliament representing the Yapei-Kusawgu constituency, John Jinapor, raised concerns about some legislators not receiving a hard copy report of a vote count, the Speaker noted that there are challenges in uploading all relevant information onto the devices used by MPs, which is expected to become the norm.

    He also cited some electrical challenges that Parliament is grappling with. The Speaker revealed that, at present, Parliament is unable to do much due to budget constraints.

    However, Speaker Bagbin remains optimistic that Parliament will transition to a paperless system in the near future.

    The digitalization drive has been well received by government agencies and the general public, as it enhances efficiency and ensures the timely delivery of desired outcomes.

    Additionally, Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has affirmed that the digitization agenda for the courts will proceed without interruption.

  • Speaker orders probe into ‘Daughter of a murderer’ comment, apologises to Rawlings family

    Speaker orders probe into ‘Daughter of a murderer’ comment, apologises to Rawlings family

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has directed a full-scale investigation into the controversial “daughter of a murderer” remark made during a parliamentary session, while also issuing an apology to the family of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings.

    Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, March 4, Mr. Bagbin condemned the comment as unacceptable and an affront to parliamentary decorum. He stressed that such remarks undermine the dignity of the House and assured the public that necessary steps would be taken to identify and hold the responsible MP accountable.

    The Speaker expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging the emotional toll it may have had on Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle, and the Rawlings family. He assured them that Parliament does not condone such conduct and that disciplinary measures would be enforced.

    In a bid to ensure transparency, Mr. Bagbin has set a one-week deadline for the MP in question to come forward voluntarily.

    “I advise the member responsible to within the week show honesty and plead than wait for outcome of investigations.”

    He warned that failure to comply would result in severe consequences, with the House ready to impose the highest sanctions once investigations are concluded.

    “… will be liable to be reprimanded or suspended for a period not exceeding 9 months or expelled from Parliament altogether.”

    The Majority Leader has also backed the Speaker’s stance, urging the MP responsible to take responsibility for their actions. He emphasized that Parliament must uphold discipline and called for stricter enforcement of ethical standards among legislators.

    Background

    The controversy erupted on February 4 during a parliamentary session commemorating the 60th anniversary of Joseph Boakye Danquah’s death. As Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin addressed the chamber, an unidentified MP from the backbenches interrupted, shouting, “Daughter of a murderer, sit down!”

    The remark, widely believed to reference former President Rawlings’ political history, sparked immediate outrage among MPs, with many condemning the statement as an attack on Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings’ integrity.

    The Speaker has since reaffirmed his commitment to upholding order in Parliament, ensuring that such incidents are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.

  • Divine intervention is necessary to restore order in Parliament – Speaker

    Divine intervention is necessary to restore order in Parliament – Speaker

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has called for divine intervention to restore order and discipline in the legislative chamber, citing persistent disorder among Members of Parliament (MPs).

    Speaking at a breakfast prayer meeting, he announced plans to hold the next annual prayer session within the parliamentary chamber itself, hoping to exorcise any disruptive influences affecting lawmakers. His remarks follow recent chaos during an Appointments Committee sitting, which he believes is symptomatic of a deeper issue.

    Bagbin expressed his concern over the stark contrast in MPs’ behavior, observing that while they act respectfully in private settings, their conduct in the chamber often descends into turmoil.

    “I keep wondering, what is inside them?” he questioned. “The great men and women of the gospel will testify that when they are in church, they behave differently, but in Parliament, it’s a whole different story. If this is the culture of politics, then we truly need God’s intervention.”

    The Speaker also noted a troubling pattern where chaos erupts whenever his deputies preside over proceedings, a situation that raises further concerns about discipline and impartiality in the House.

    “I often wonder why there is trouble when I’m absent,” he stated. “Just last week, when I handed over to my second deputy speaker, chaos erupted almost immediately. Members were on their feet, singing and shouting. I was in my office, unsure whether to rush back and take over, but I held back to avoid disrupting leadership.”

    Reflecting on the matter, he said, “I refrained from returning immediately because that would not demonstrate leadership. Instead, I chose to watch what unfolded and reflect on why this keeps happening.”

    Bagbin emphasized the importance of impartiality in presiding over parliamentary affairs, pointing out that Ghana’s decision to have a Speaker who is not an MP was intentional.

    “There’s a reason why this country made the decision that the Speaker should not be a Member of Parliament. If the person presiding can vote, it creates bias, leading to disorder. That’s why deputies, when they take the chair, act the way they do.”

    He concluded with a call for change, stressing that restoring order and unity in Parliament requires a shift in approach, and above all, divine intervention.

    “We need to restore order and unity in Parliament, but that requires a change, and I believe divine intervention is necessary.”

  • Suspend probe into vetting chaos – Speaker orders committee

    Suspend probe into vetting chaos – Speaker orders committee

    Speaker Alban Bagbin has ordered a temporary suspension of the special committee investigating the disruption during the ministerial vetting process.

    The directive takes effect immediately and will continue until further notice.

    This update was shared by the committee’s chair, Emmanuel Bedzrah, as Gifty Jiagge-Gobah, the clerk who was on the receiving end of verbal abuse from Alexander Afenyo-Markin, was giving her testimony.

    “The clerk of parliament has instructed that we should suspend the sitting until further notice, and therefore, I want everybody to be aware that it is not the committee that has decided to stop but the Clerk to Parliament of Ghana has requested that until he gets further instruction from the speaker, the Committee should the sitting. On that note, we want to discharge you,” he said.

    The committee tasked began its public hearings today. The committee’s role is to scrutinize the events of January 30, which saw a standoff between the Minority and Majority over the vetting schedule and the destruction of parliamentary equipment.

    The committee chaired by Ho West MP Emmanuel Bedzrah and includes members Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui, Abena Osei Asare, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, and Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng.

    It has been tasked with presenting its findings and recommendations within 10 days.

  • Annoh-Dompreh, two others unjustly suspended – Minority

    Annoh-Dompreh, two others unjustly suspended – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has strongly objected to Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to suspend three of its members from parliamentary duties for two weeks, starting January 31, 2025.

    The suspension stems from a tense altercation during the vetting of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa at the Appointments Committee on the night of January 30, 2025.

    Those affected include Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Second Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib, and Gushegu MP Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli. Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor was also sanctioned.

    In a statement issued on Saturday, February 1, the Minority Caucus strongly condemned the Speaker’s decision, calling it politically motivated and an overreach of authority.

    “We categorically reject the suspension of three MPs and demand an immediate reversal of this politically charged decision. If this unjustifiable action, it will set a precedent where the Speaker becomes an unchecked authority, weaponising disciplinary measures against those who do not align with his preferred political narratives.”

    The Minority Caucus stressed that Parliament must adhere to democratic ideals and guarantee equity in its proceedings.

    “Parliament must remain a bastion of democracy, not an institution of oppression. The Ghanian people deserve a Parliament where all voices are heard, not one where members are punished for their commitment due to process and accountability,” parts of the statement read.

  • Alban Bagbin is Speaker of the 9th Parliament 

    Alban Bagbin is Speaker of the 9th Parliament 

    Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin has been officially sworn in as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana. His swearing-in ceremony took place on January 7, 2025, following his endorsement by President-elect John Dramani Mahama.

    Bagbin’s re-election further cements his legacy in Ghana’s parliamentary history, having previously served as Speaker during the 8th Parliament.

    The proceedings commenced with newly confirmed Majority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson nominating Bagbin for the Speaker role, stating, “I move that Hon Alban Bagbin do take the chair of this House as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament.”

    The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, although he raised concerns over the nomination process, citing a lack of consultation from the President-elect. Despite the objections, Clerk of Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror dismissed the concerns, emphasizing their irrelevance to the formalities of seconding the motion.

    Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo then administered the Oath of Office, officially confirming Bagbin’s position as Speaker.

    In his acceptance speech, Bagbin called for unity and pledged to work impartially for the smooth functioning of the House.

    This event marks a significant moment in Ghana’s parliamentary history, with Bagbin continuing to lead a legislature dominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which holds a commanding majority.

    https://twitter.com/GTV_Ghana/status/1876446982203756975

  • I will continue to uphold justice, fairness and respect for the rule of law – Bagbin

    I will continue to uphold justice, fairness and respect for the rule of law – Bagbin

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has reaffirmed his dedication to upholding justice, fairness, and respect for the rule of law as he prepares to assume the role of Speaker in Ghana’s Ninth Parliament.

    In a statement expressing gratitude for his nomination, Bagbin pledged to work diligently in strengthening Ghana’s democratic institutions and ensuring Parliament remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of citizens. He emphasised his unwavering commitment to service and accountability, vowing to lead with integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness.

    “I would like to take this opportunity to assure the President-elect, John Mahama, and the people of Ghana that I will, more than before, rededicate myself fully to the task ahead of the country, working to strengthen our democratic institutions and to ensure that Parliament remains an effective and responsive institution to the needs and hopes of the people,” he stated.

    Bagbin’s pledge follows a directive from President-elect John Dramani Mahama, who instructed the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Leadership to endorse him for the position. Mahama praised Bagbin’s parliamentary experience and leadership, describing him as well-positioned to help Parliament address future challenges effectively.

    Bagbin acknowledged the significant responsibility the role carries and assured all stakeholders that he remains steadfast in his principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. He also called for unity among Parliamentarians, stressing the importance of collaboration to advance national development.

    “As Speaker of the Ninth Parliament, I will continue to uphold these values and ensure that the Ninth Parliament operates with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, accountability and inclusiveness,” he added.

  • We don’t want an outsider Speaker of Parliament – Afenyo-Markin

    We don’t want an outsider Speaker of Parliament – Afenyo-Markin

    Outgoing Majority Leader of Ghana’s Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has urged the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to either retain the current Speaker, Alban Bagbin, or appoint a new Speaker from within Parliament.

    According to him, if the incoming John Mahama administration decides to change the Speaker, the individual should not be an outsider. He emphasized that Alban Bagbin has performed exceptionally well over the past four years, and it would be unfair to replace him with someone unfamiliar with the workings of the House.

    “Mr Speaker, the institutional empowerment you have given to Parliament is unmatched, and it is likely because we have you as speaker coming from within. Mr Speaker, I don’t know whether you will be retained or if a new person will be appointed… If they decide to maintain you, I know Parliament will continue to benefit. But should they decide to retire you, which I know they can do, if they choose to bring in a new Speaker, that person should come from within. We don’t want an outsider,” he said during the House’s first sitting after the long break caused by the vacant seat impasse.

    Mr. Afenyo-Markin further explained that members of the House would prefer “someone who will understand us,” reiterating the importance of selecting a Speaker who is already familiar with parliamentary procedures.

    He praised Alban Bagbin for his leadership, stating, “Mr Speaker, let me commend you for the four years of your leadership in this House. We may have had our disagreements, but it is clear that the welfare of members has been key to your leadership. Nobody can take that away from you.”

    Monday’s sitting took place at the Accra International Conference Centre, where members of Parliament convened to debate pending matters before the current Parliament’s closure.

  • Parliament to reconvene on December 16 – Speaker declares

    Parliament to reconvene on December 16 – Speaker declares

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has announced that Parliament will reconvene on Monday, December 16, at 10 a.m., with the venue to be disclosed at a later date.

    In a statement issued on December 2, Speaker Bagbin cited Order 58 of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana as the basis for the recall.

    “Pursuant to Order 58 of the Standing Orders of the Parliament of Ghana, I, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, hereby give notice that the seventh meeting of the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament of the Fourth Republic shall commence on Monday, the 16th day of December, 2024, at ten o’clock in the forenoon at a place to be appointed by the Speaker in due course,” the communique read.

    The recall is aimed at addressing critical matters and ensuring a smooth transition to the ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic following the general elections. In a prior memo to the Majority on November 26, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the importance of decorum in parliamentary proceedings and urged members to place the national interest above partisan considerations.

    Earlier, the Speaker’s decision not to recall Parliament had been supported by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus, which dismissed a recall request by New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs as unnecessary and poorly timed.

  • Speaker petitioned to recall Parliament again amid boycott threats by NDC MPs

    Speaker petitioned to recall Parliament again amid boycott threats by NDC MPs

    The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to reconvene the House to address the outstanding business of Parliament.

    In a letter signed by Afenyo-Markin, he urged Speaker Bagbin to exercise his constitutional mandate under Standing Orders 57(3) and 58(4) to recall Parliament and address pressing matters that remain unresolved.

    Speaker Alban Bagbin had previously adjourned the House indefinitely following a half-side representation on Thursday, November 7. Parliamentary sitting was adjourned sine die after New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament failed to show up, despite the House being recalled less than a month earlier on October 22.

    Earlier, Speaker Bagbin had directed members of Parliament to end their recess and reconvene at the Accra International Conference Centre following a petition filed by NPP MPs under Article 112(3) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 53 of the Standing Orders of Parliament. This was to address urgent national matters that required immediate action.

    However, during Thursday’s sitting, the Speaker explained that the House could not proceed with business as the Business Committee, chaired by NPP Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, was unable to convene and deliberate on matters that should have been discussed.

    In response to the call for a reconvening of Parliament, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has signaled its intent to boycott any emergency session. National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, instructed his party’s MPs to abstain from attending the sitting. Nketia cautioned that with Ghana’s general election just three weeks away, any recall would likely serve as an opportunity for the ruling NPP to engage in corrupt practices rather than addressing critical government business.

    Tamale Central MP, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, also raised concerns over the financial burden that emergency parliamentary sessions impose on the state, emphasizing that each session costs Ghana at least GH¢1 million—a significant sum for a single day’s sitting.

    Meanwhile, several important government business items remain in limbo. These include the approval of two Supreme Court Judge nominees appointed by President Akufo-Addo, as well as tax waivers exceeding $350 million.

    Additionally, there are pending bills before Parliament, including the Architects Registration Bill 2024, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Vaccines Development and Manufacturing Bill 2024, and the Environmental Protection Agency Bill 2024. Parliament had previously concluded consideration of the Environmental Protection Agency Bill 2024 on October 16, during the 5th meeting of the 4th session of the 8th Parliament.

  • I am fully dedicated to ensuring peace in this nation – Speaker

    I am fully dedicated to ensuring peace in this nation – Speaker

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has expressed his firm commitment to prioritizing the peace off the nation above political interests.

    He made this known to the the leadership of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS)  who paid  a courtesy call on him to promote peace and unity during the 2024 election.

    “I’m more than committed to the peace of this nation,” the Speaker stated.

    The GNACOPS delegation, comprising teachers and pupils from selected private schools, was led by its National Executive Director, Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah.

    A statement from Parliament’s Media Relations Directorate conveyed that the delegation urged the Speaker to leverage his influence during this pivotal period in Ghana’s democratic journey to foster peace before, during, and after the 2024 elections.

    They commended the Speaker for his remarkable accomplishments and for demonstrating to the youth that peaceful coexistence is the true hallmark of a democratic society.

    Speaker Bagbin promised GNACOPS that the elections would be free, fair, and peaceful.

    He explained that, as part of Ghana’s 30 years of Parliamentary Democracy Celebrations, he held a seminar in Tamale, inviting experts to help everyone understand the importance of peace in the country.

    He also talked about the new “Democracy Cup” initiative, using football, the nation’s favorite sport, as a way to promote peace.

    “The foundation of life is peace,” Speaker Bagbin said.

    He praised GNACOPS for speaking up for peace and for teaching this value to young learners, who will be the future leaders of Ghana.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Supreme Court to deliver verdict on vacant Parliamentary seats controversy

    LIVESTREAMING: Supreme Court to deliver verdict on vacant Parliamentary seats controversy

    Today, the Supreme Court is expected to rule on a high-profile case involving the controversial decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant a matter that has sparked political debate and put the constitutional authority of Parliament’s Speaker, Alban Bagbin under scrutiny.

    The case was filed by the leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary caucus, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who contests Speaker Alban Bagbin’s unilateral declaration of the seats as vacant.

    Afenyo-Markin argues that Bagbin acted without judicial oversight and bypassed the process of calling by-elections.

    Central to the case is Bagbin’s interpretation of the 1992 Constitution’s stipulations on parliamentary vacancies. Bagbin justified his September 17, 2024, decision, asserting that the MPs in question had breached constitutional requirements, thereby forfeiting their seats.

    Afenyo-Markin contends that the Speaker exceeded his authority, asserting that only the judiciary has the power to interpret constitutional matters of this nature. He claims that Bagbin’s decision effectively deprives constituents in these districts of their right to representation.

    In response to Afenyo-Markin’s suit, the Supreme Court issued an injunction preventing further actions on the vacated seats until it reached a final judgment. Speaker Bagbin filed a motion to challenge this interim ruling, arguing that the injunction obstructed his official duties and asserting that his actions were within his authority to uphold the integrity of Parliament.

    The court upheld the injunction, dismissing Bagbin’s appeal to reverse it, which has now set the stage for today’s pivotal judgment on this constitutional dispute.

  • Bagbin conducts school children to sing ‘It is well with my soul’

    Bagbin conducts school children to sing ‘It is well with my soul’

    On Saturday, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin engaged children from some private schools.

    He spoke on the need for peace and unity for national development and the need for all to uphold the ideals of democracy.

    Before bidding farewell, he led the children to sing “It is well with my soul” hymn penned by hymnist Horatio Spafford and composed by Philip Bliss.

    Recently, the Speaker has been in the news over an impasse in parliament. This stems from the declaration of four seats vacant after their holders officially began their quest to contest in the upcoming elections as independent candidates.

    This has led to a leadership crisis as both NPP Members of Parliament and NDC Members of Parliament fight for the Majority position.

    NPP Caucus leader, Alexander Afenyo Markin run to the Supreme Court and secured a ruling directing the Speaker to suspend his ruling. The Speaker in turn got his lawyers to file a stay of execution on the court’s ruling but that was dismissed for lacking merit.

    Despite the development, the Speaker has refused to rescind his directive.

  • We will cite Speaker Bagbin for contempt over vacant seat case – K.T. Hammond

    We will cite Speaker Bagbin for contempt over vacant seat case – K.T. Hammond

    New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament and Trade Minister, Kobina Tahir Hammond, has declared that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, will be cited for contempt of court in the ongoing legal dispute over four vacant parliamentary seats.

    The controversy stems from Speaker Bagbin‘s decision to stand by the declaration of the seats of four MPs—Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central)—as vacant—a decision which suspended by the Supreme Court and proceed with parliamentary sitting with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament holding themselves as the Majority Caucus.

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin adjourned the House indefinitely following a half-side representation on Thursday, November 7. The Speaker explained that there was a quorum for sitting however, “we have no business before us to transact because the Business Committee.”

    “As you know, they prepare report and this report adopted by the House as business agreed by the House to transact during the course of the week. In the absence of that, there is no other authority that can put government before you which you have not adopted to transact. In view of the failure of the Business Committee to sit, as a result of the refusal of those who requested for the recall to show up, we are compelled to once again adjourn the sitting of the House,” the Speaker explained.

    He urged that “knowing the challenges we are facing, it is not advisable to be adjourning from day to day.”

    On the matter, the Leader of the National Democratic Congress Members of Parliament, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has accused the NPP MPs of causing financial loss to the state. “This recall cost the state, and they are abusing it. Ghanaians should vote them out for this conduct,” he said.

    NPP MP Kobina Tahir Hammond, on his part, registered his displeasure over the NDC MPs occupying the Majority side of Parliament despite the Supreme Court ruling that bars the Speaker from declaring some four seats occupied by held by Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central) vacant.

    “Is that were they are supposed to be sitting? We have a convention. Supreme Court has spoken. It is not for us Members of Parliament on the Majority side to be arguing any point,” the MP said. He then revealed that “we will cite him (the Speaker) for contempt.”

    Vacant seat case

    The Speaker’s vacant seat ruling, based on his interpretation of Article 97(1)(g) of the Constitution, was contested by the NPP, particularly by the leader of the NPP Members of Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Afenyo-Markin argued that Speaker Bagbin had overstepped his constitutional authority by declaring the seats vacant without judicial oversight, prompting him to seek the intervention of the Supreme Court.

    In response to the challenge, the Supreme Court issued an interim injunction halting the Speaker’s decision until further judicial review. Speaker Bagbin has filed an application with the Supreme Court to reinstate his declaration of the seats as vacant, arguing that parliamentary decisions fall outside the jurisdiction of the judiciary. However, the Supreme Court, under Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, dismissed Bagbin’s motion.

    Speaker Bagbin reacts to Judiciary intervention

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has voiced his frustration over what he sees as an increasing tendency among legislators to seek Supreme Court intervention on matters that should be handled within Parliament itself.

    At a press conference on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Bagbin expressed concern that this reliance on the judiciary is eroding the authority and respect of the legislative body.

    “The courts are replete with debates and proceedings of Parliament. Most worrying is, these proceedings are initiated by some Members of Parliament, even leaders of Parliament who are to know better. Parliamentarians who are supposed to be loyal to Parliament and not the Supreme Court run to the Supreme Court at the slightest opportunity to use the Supreme Court to undermine Parliament. This might be one of the reasons Parliament and Members of Parliament are not respected and treated with disdain,” he said.

  • Speaker adjourns parliament indefinitely after NPP MPs boycott sitting

    Speaker adjourns parliament indefinitely after NPP MPs boycott sitting

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has adjourned the House indefinitely following a half-side representation on Thursday, November 7.

    Parliamentary sitting was adjourned sine die after the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament failed to show up after recalling the House less than a month after the House adjourned sitting on October 22.

    Speaker Alban Bagbin directed members of Parliament to end recess and reconvene at the Accra International Conference Centre after a petition filed by the New Patriotic Party Members of Parliament in accordance with Article 112(3) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 53 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, underscoring the necessity of reconvening to tackle pressing national matters that demand immediate action.

    During Thursday’s sitting, the Speaker explained that the House could not sit for business as the Business Committee chaired by NPP Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, could not sit to have a business that would be deliberated.

    “As you know, they prepare report and this report adopted by the House as business agreed by the House to transact during the course of the week. In the absence of that, there is no other authority that can put government before you which you have not adopted to transact. In view of the failure of the Business Committee to sit, as a result of the refusal of those who requested for the recall to show up, we are compelled to once again adjourn the sitting of the House,” the Speaker said.

    He advised that “knowing the challenges we are facing, it is not advisable to be adjourning from day to day.” On the matter, the Leader of the National Democratic Congress, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has accused the NPP MPs of causing financial loss to the state.

    NPP MP and Trade Minister Kobina Tahir Hammond, on his part, registered his displeasure over the NDC MPs occupying the Majority side of Parliament despite the Supreme Court ruling that bars the Speaker from declaring some four seats occupied by held by Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central) vacant.

    He also announced that his side will cite the Speaker of Parliament for contempt of the court.

    Vacant seat case

    The Speaker’s vacant seat ruling, based on his interpretation of Article 97(1)(g) of the Constitution, was contested by the NPP, particularly by the leader of the NPP Members of Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Afenyo-Markin argued that Speaker Bagbin had overstepped his constitutional authority by declaring the seats vacant without judicial oversight, prompting him to seek the intervention of the Supreme Court.

    In response to the challenge, the Supreme Court issued an interim injunction halting the Speaker’s decision until further judicial review. Speaker Bagbin has filed an application with the Supreme Court to reinstate his declaration of the seats as vacant, arguing that parliamentary decisions fall outside the jurisdiction of the judiciary. However, the Supreme Court, under Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, dismissed Bagbin’s motion.

    Speaker Bagbin reacts to Judiciary intervention

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has voiced his frustration over what he sees as an increasing tendency among legislators to seek Supreme Court intervention on matters that should be handled within Parliament itself.

    At a press conference on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Bagbin expressed concern that this reliance on the judiciary is eroding the authority and respect of the legislative body.

    “The courts are replete with debates and proceedings of Parliament. Most worrying is, these proceedings are initiated by some Members of Parliament, even leaders of Parliament who are to know better. Parliamentarians who are supposed to be loyal to Parliament and not the Supreme Court run to the Supreme Court at the slightest opportunity to use the Supreme Court to undermine Parliament. This might be one of the reasons Parliament and Members of Parliament are not respected and treated with disdain,” he said.

    Outstanding government business

    Several key parliamentary businesses such as the approval of two Supreme Court Judge nominees appointed by President Akufo-Addo and tax waivers over $350 million, are in limbo.

    Additionally, pending bills before Parliament include the Architects Registration Bill 2024, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Vaccines Development and Manufacturing Bill 2024, and the Environmental Protection Agency Bill 2024.

    Parliament concluded consideration of the Environmental Protection Agency Bill 2024 on October 16, during the 5th meeting of the 4th session of the 8th Parliament.

  • There is no constitutional crisis – Speaker refutes CJ’s claims

    There is no constitutional crisis – Speaker refutes CJ’s claims

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has stated that there is no constitutional crisis in the country as alleged by the Judicial arm of government.

    He made this known during a media briefing today in preparation for Parliament’s upcoming session on Thursday, November 7.

    “I want to start this presser by disabusing and setting the minds of Ghanaians at ease. There is no constitutional crisis in this country,” he said.

    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo last week described the parliamentary dispute concerning four seats declared vacant by the Speaker as a constitutional crisis that necessitates urgent resolution.

    During court proceedings on Wednesday, October 30 she expressed concern about what she views as a delay in the judicial process related to this issue, urging the Speaker’s lawyer, Thaddeus Sory, to take prompt action.

    She questioned Sory on why he had not submitted the necessary documents for Speaker Alban Bagbin by the stipulated deadline of October 30, 2024.

    “This is a constitutional crisis; we’re living in a country where Parliament is not sitting. What is going on?” she quizzed.

    Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has dismissed an application by Alban Bagbin, who sought to overturn a ruling that suspended his declaration concerning four parliamentarians.

    This followed an initial suit filed by Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin, challenging the Speaker’s declaration. Bagbin’s legal team argued that the apex court lacked jurisdiction in the matter, among other arguments. However, after hearing from all parties, including the Attorney General, the Supreme Court upheld its earlier ruling, deeming the Speaker’s appeal to be without merit.

  • Nobody looks up to Ghana anymore; our economy, judiciary are compromised – Mahama

    Nobody looks up to Ghana anymore; our economy, judiciary are compromised – Mahama

    National Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Candidate John Mahama has lamented that Ghana is no longer seen as a model for democracy, citing issues with the country’s judiciary and economy.

    Speaking on the second day of his tour in the Northern Region, Mahama expressed concerns over the perceived lack of independence within the Judiciary and the weakening of state institutions, which he said have led to global disappointment in Ghana’s governance.

    “Anywhere I go, the question people outside Ghana ask me is, ‘Ghana, what happened to you? Kwame Nkrumah’s Ghana, what happened to you?’” Mahama stated. “Everybody looked up to Ghana as the model of democracy, today, we are a bad model of democracy, our judiciary is not independent, all our state institutions have been destroyed, people looked up to Ghana as a country that is a model of economic management, today, our economy is in shambles.”

    Mahama’s remarks come amid a legal dispute involving Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin over the declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant.

    After Speaker Bagbin’s declaration, Afenyo-Markin sought a stay from the Supreme Court, which ultimately suspended the Speaker’s action. In response, Speaker Bagbin filed a suit to challenge the Supreme Court’s ruling, asserting that the Court lacked jurisdiction in this matter.

    Following submissions from all parties, including the Attorney-General, the Supreme Court upheld its decision, maintaining that the Speaker’s appeal was without merit.

  • The A-G Office should be defending the Speaker in vacant seat case, not his lawyers – Dame

    The A-G Office should be defending the Speaker in vacant seat case, not his lawyers – Dame

    Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has argued that the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, should rely on the Attorney General’s office rather than his personal lawyers in the ongoing Supreme Court case concerning the status of four legislators.

    The Supreme Court had earlier paused the execution of the Speaker’s ruling, which sought to declare the seats of these Members of Parliament vacant after they decided to contest as independent candidates ahead of the upcoming general election.

    Dame stated that it falls under his office’s authority to represent public officeholders in legal matters, including the Speaker. “The Constitution designates the Attorney General as the defendant in all actions involving the government, including its parliamentary arm,” he emphasized.

    Clarifying further, Dame noted, “The first defendant (the Speaker) is not even a proper party to the proceedings before the court, and his absence will not impede the court’s ability to proceed with the hearing of the matter.” He added, “It is even improper for the first defendant to be joined in this action; the proper defendant should solely be the Attorney General.”

    The Attorney General’s remarks came after Bagbin’s indication that he would engage personal counsel for the case, which Dame argued was unnecessary for the court’s adjudication of the matter.

    Earlier, the Supreme Court dismissed an application by the Speaker seeking to overturn its earlier decision to stay his declaration on the parliamentarians’ seats. This legal development follows a suit initially filed by Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who challenged Bagbin’s ruling.

    The Speaker’s legal team argued the Supreme Court lacked jurisdiction over the matter, along with other grounds presented in court. The court has adjourned the substantive case to November 11, with Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo giving Bagbin until Wednesday, November 6, to file necessary documents.

  • Seat Vacancy: Speaker’s application has no merit – Supreme Court rules

    Seat Vacancy: Speaker’s application has no merit – Supreme Court rules

    The Supreme Court has ruled that Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin’s application to overturn its previous decision regarding the declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant lacks merit.

    This ruling follows a challenge brought forth by Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin, prompting the Court to affirm its earlier stance that allows the four MPs to retain their positions until the case is fully resolved.

    In response, Bagbin’s legal team argued that the Supreme Court did not have jurisdiction over the matter, among other grounds presented in court.

    However, after carefully considering the arguments from all parties, including those from the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, the Supreme Court affirmed its previous ruling, stating that the Speaker’s appeal lacked merit.

    Chief Justice comments reflected this conclusion, emphasizing, “We have considered the application, and we have come to the conclusion that the grounds supporting the application have no merit”.

    In a related development, the Court also dismissed an objection from Thaddeus Sory, Bagbin’s counsel, regarding Justice Ernest Gaewu’s participation.

    Mr Sory argued that Gaewu’s history as a parliamentary candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) might present a conflict of interest. However, the Supreme Court rejected this claim.

    This decision follows an October 18 directive from the Court instructing Parliament to allow the four MPs to continue their duties until the case is resolved, effectively putting the Speaker’s declaration made on October 17 on hold.

    The ruling is significant, as both factions in Parliament currently assert their claim to a majority.

  • NPP Caucus petitions Speaker to reconvene Parliament as a matter of “national importance”

    NPP Caucus petitions Speaker to reconvene Parliament as a matter of “national importance”

    The Majority Caucus in Parliament has submitted a formal memo to the Speaker, Alban Bagbin, calling for an urgent meeting of the House. 

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, announced the indefinite adjournment of parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday, October 22, after a tumultuous day in the Chamber, characterised by heated disputes between Members of Parliament (MPs) from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) over the question of which caucus holds the Majority.

    In the memo issued in accordance with Article 112(3) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 53 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, the Caucus underscores the necessity of reconvening to tackle pressing national matters that demand immediate action. 

    The memo states: “Respectfully, on behalf of myself (Habib Iddrisu) and the requisite number of Members of Parliament from the Majority Caucus, I have the honour to address you on a matter of utmost national importance.”

    Citing Article 112(3) of the Constitution, the letter highlights that “notwithstanding any other provision of this article, fifteen percent of Members of Parliament may request a meeting of Parliament; and the Speaker shall, within seven days after the receipt of the request, summon Parliament. Despite any other provision, 15% of the Members of Parliament may request a meeting of Parliament, and the Speaker shall, within seven days after the receipt of the request, summon Parliament,”

    The Caucus outlined three key matters to be addressed, prompting them to invoke Article 112(3):

    “We respectfully request that, upon the House’s recall, the following urgent government business be discussed and acted upon, including any other matters that may arise…” including tax exemptions for eligible beneficiaries under the One District, One Factory Programme and the approval of the Ghana Financial Stability Fund, a $250 million facility from the International Development Association.

    Additionally, the Caucus outlined several bills for deliberation, such as the Environmental Protection Agency Bill, 2024, the Social Protection Bill, 2023, the Customs (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Budget Bill, 2023, the Ghana Boundary Commission Bill, 2023, and the Intestate Succession Bill, 2022.

  • Speaker’s ruling declaring 4 parliamentary seats vacant suspended by Supreme Court

    Speaker’s ruling declaring 4 parliamentary seats vacant suspended by Supreme Court

    The apex court of Ghana has issued a stay of execution on the ruling by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, which declared the seats of four Members of Parliament (MPs) vacant.

    Speaker Bagbin on Thursday, October 17, declared vacant the seats occupied by Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), who sided with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central), who run on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2020 elections.

    These individuals have filed to contest as independent candidates in the upcoming December elections. 

    In his ruling, Speaker Alban Bagbin, after extensive reading, emphasized that if Article 97 (1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution were meant to apply only to a future parliament, it would have been redundant, as the MPs in question would have already completed their current parliamentary term.

    The Speaker further clarified that the previous instance where former Speaker Prof. Mike Oquaye expelled the Fomena MP from Parliament based on the NPP’s notification of the MP’s decision to go independent, was not binding on him or any other future Speaker.

    Bagbin concluded that since the notice of polls had officially confirmed that the four MPs were contesting as independent candidates, they no longer had the right to retain their seats in the current parliament. Consequently, he declared their seats vacant.

    Their removal was spearheaded by former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, who invoked Article 97 (1)(g) of the Constitution, which mandates that MPs who contest as independent candidates must vacate their seats.

    Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin responded to the matter by filing a legal challenge at the Supreme Court to prevent the Minority’s bid. Afenyo-Markin contested the Speaker’s ruling, however, Ato Forson lauded the Speaker “for standing firm.”

    In application of the Speaker’s declaration, Ato Forson is now the Majority Leader whereas Afenyo-Markin is the Minority Leader. Presently, Andrew Asiamah ceases to be the Second Deputy Speaker in Parliament after losing the Fomena seat.

    Prior to the ruling, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held 137 seats, while the NPP had 138. With the successful motion, the NDC now has a parliamentary majority with 136 seats while the NPP has 135 seats.

    Meanwhile, the NPP Members of Parliament have vowed not to step into the chamber until the matter before the Supreme Court is addressed.

    The Supreme Court’s stay order is expected to delay any implementation of the ruling and maintain the current composition of Parliament until the final determination of the matter.

  • Afenyo-Markin fumes after journalist’s failure to address him as Majority leader after Speaker’s verdict

    Afenyo-Markin fumes after journalist’s failure to address him as Majority leader after Speaker’s verdict

    Former Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, now serving as the Minority Leader, surprised many viewers and listeners during a live interview on Thursday, October 17, 2024.

    The incident occurred when he insisted that the journalist introduce him using his former title of Majority Leader before he would proceed with the interview.

    This surprising request came on the same day the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament, who had been the Majority Caucus in Ghana’s 8th Parliament, officially transitioned to the Minority side. The change followed Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant, altering the political composition of the House and consequently affecting the titles of the leadership.

    The decision to declare these seats vacant stemmed from Article 97 [1(g) & (h)] of the 1992 Constitution. This article stipulates that a Member of Parliament must vacate their seat if they leave the party under which they were elected or seek to remain in Parliament as an independent candidate after having initially been elected as a party member or vice versa.

    This move, led by NDC MP Haruna Iddrisu, was in response to MPs from the NPP filing nominations to contest the 2024 election as independent candidates, while another independent MP filed to run on the NPP’s ticket.

    Afenyo-Markin, whose Effutu seat was not part of those declared vacant, expressed frustration during the interview on Joy FM and JoyNews for not being referred to by his previous title. He explained that he had already filed an injunction at the Supreme Court to challenge the Speaker’s declaration of the seats as vacant and was displeased by the lack of recognition of his former role.

    The unexpected nature of the leadership change and Afenyo-Markin’s reaction underscored the tensions within Parliament on that day.

    “… Let me hear how you introduce me again.”

    The journalist responded, “Okay, so we have Alexander Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu, on the line.”

    The MP, obviously not happy, responded: “You either do the right thing or I just go off.”

    The journalist then quickly addresses him again.

    “Okay, so I have the Majority Leader on the line, Alexander Afenyo-Markin; is that okay?” the journalist asked.

    The MP then retorted, “Young man, how do you do your journalism? You will introduce someone properly. You don’t make these things for me to remind you and all that. What do you gain from it? Is it okay for us to have a banter?”

    The journalist responded, “No, no. I only said I have the Majority Leader.” The MP swiftly interjected, saying, “You started with I have Alexander Afenyo-Markin, then you said MP for Effutu, then I had to remind you. Please, let’s do the right thing. Is that okay? So, do the right thing and let’s proceed.” The journalist then said, “Okay, please forgive me. So, let me bring in Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.”

    A now satisfied Afenyo-Markin then responded, “Yes, sir, good evening to you; thanks for having me.”

  • BREAKING: Speaker declares NDC majority in historic ruling, 3 NPP seats now vacant

    BREAKING: Speaker declares NDC majority in historic ruling, 3 NPP seats now vacant

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has delivered his ruling on a petition calling for the removal of four sitting Members of Parliament (MPs).

    Speaker Bagbin has declared vacant the seats occupied by Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kojo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), who sided with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central), who run on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2020 elections.

    These individuals have filed to contest as independent candidates in the upcoming December elections.

    In his ruling, Speaker Alban Bagbin, after extensive reading, emphasized that if Article 97 (1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution were meant to apply only to a future parliament, it would have been redundant, as the MPs in question would have already completed their current parliamentary term.

    The Speaker further clarified that the previous instance where former Speaker Prof. Mike Oquaye expelled the Fomena MP from Parliament based on the NPP’s notification of the MP’s decision to go independent, was not binding on him or any other future Speaker.

    Bagbin concluded that since the notice of polls had officially confirmed that the four MPs were contesting as independent candidates, they no longer had the right to retain their seats in the current parliament. Consequently, he declared their seats vacant.

    Their removal was spearheaded by former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, who invoked Article 97 (1)(g) of the Constitution, which mandates that MPs who contest as independent candidates must vacate their seats.

    Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin responded to the matter by filing a legal challenge at the Supreme Court to prevent the Minority’s bid. Afenyo-Markin contested the Speaker’s ruling, however, Ato Forson lauded the Speaker “for standing firm.”

    Ato Forson is now the Majority Leader whereas Afenyo-Markin is the Minority Leader. Presently, Andrew Asiamah ceases to be the Second Deputy Speaker in Parliament after losing the Fomena seat.

    Prior to the ruling, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held 137 seats, while the NPP had 138. With the successful motion, the NDC now has a parliamentary majority with 136 seats while the NPP has 135 seats.

    Meanwhile, the NPP Members of Parliament have vowed not to step into the chamber until the matter before the Supreme Court is addressed.

  • Take him out of the House – Speaker’s reaction to rude Sefwi Wiawso MP

    Take him out of the House – Speaker’s reaction to rude Sefwi Wiawso MP

    Head of the legislative body, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has criticized the lawmaker from Sefwi Wiawso, Kwaku Afriyie, for challenging his position.

    While announcing the president’s selection of two new individuals for the role of Supreme Court Justices, the Speaker emphasized the necessity for the House to deliberate on legislation to limit the maximum number of judges appointed to the highest court.

    Nevertheless, the parliamentarian from Sefwi Wiawso opposed the Speaker’s remark, basing his objection on his role as the representative of his constituency’s citizens.

    “Mr. Speaker, with all due respect to your chair, this preliminary comment you are making is prejudicial, and I believe that as representing the good people of Sefwi-Wiawso, it doesn’t lie in your mouth to remind us of the things that you have said, thank you,” he remarked.

    The remark by the legislator, however, did not please the Speaker, who considered it disrespectful.

    In reaction, Speaker Bagbin proclaimed his position as higher than that of the legislator and proceeded to command his prompt ejection from the hall.

    “This is a completely rude remark, and I can send you out of the House now. It lies in my authority to do so. You represent the good people of Sefwi-Wiawso; I represent the whole country. Please, Marshal, take him out of the House. I will not entertain such disrespect,” he ordered.

    The Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, in response to the Speaker’s directive, offered an apology to Mr. Bagbin on behalf of his associate and the group.

    “Speaker, we acknowledge the wisdom you have guided us with and how you have navigated us to this point. We have had moments of tension; we have had some tense moments in the House, and through all that, you have shown leadership, and it is incumbent upon us as leaders to help you right now. What happened a moment ago was unfortunate,” he told the Speaker.

    Yet, Mr. Kwaku Afriyie, in a discussion on Monday night, insisted that he was never inappropriate with his dissent and rejected the apology made for him.

    “He (Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh) does not have my permission to apologize to the Speaker. And this one you can put on record: I haven’t done anything wrong; why should I apologize?

    “Whatever happens, I will advise myself. I will not be prejudicial in saying some things. That will be very unfortunate on my part, so you let the issue unfold, and then we shall see. So far, I haven’t done anything wrong; I haven’t insulted the Speaker; I haven’t disrespected him; where’s the disrespect?” he stated in an interview on Citi FM.

    “Actually, it was with a lot of humility that I acted, and that was why I told the Marshal to let me bow to the chair. I was raised in the palace. That is all. I have not done anything wrong to apologize for,” he added.

    Watch video below:




  • “You are an MP, and so what?” – Speaker on how some security personnel respond to govt officials

    “You are an MP, and so what?” – Speaker on how some security personnel respond to govt officials

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has encouraged Members of Parliament (MPs) to conduct themselves respectfully if they wish to earn the public’s respect.

    Addressing concerns raised by some MPs about their treatment by certain segments of the public, the Speaker acknowledged that public perception of MPs is currently not very favorable.

    Alban Bagbin pointed out that the feedback he has from the public is that “MPs behave like kindergarten kids on the floor.”

    “Some of you have complained to me that you meet some of these security personnel and some other officials and when you say ‘I am a member of Parliament’, the response you get is that and so what?

    “I think that this problem is from how we conduct ourselves. Will they ever tell a judge or a minister ‘and so what’? Why is it that they say that to Members of Parliament? We need to look at it first,” he added.

    He, therefore, advised parliamentarians to be conscious of their behavior, reminding them to act as leaders of the State.

    He also urged the lawmakers to take their responsibilities seriously.

    The 8th Parliament of Ghana has seen numerous disputes and confrontations among its members.

    These conflicts have often arisen from disagreements over legislative procedures and political tensions between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Noteworthy incidents include physical clashes during the election of the Speaker of Parliament and intense arguments during the debate and approval of the 2022 budget.

    These occurrences have sparked concerns about parliamentary decorum and the effectiveness of Ghana’s legislature.

  • Bills must be enacted before they can be legally contested – Speaker

    Bills must be enacted before they can be legally contested – Speaker

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has asserted that no entity, including the judiciary, should intervene in bills before they receive presidential assent.

    Bagbin expressed frustration at receiving legal notices regarding matters still under parliamentary consideration, warning that such actions undermine the legislature’s authority.

    ” When it comes to lawmaking until all the processes in this house are exhausted, there is no business for anybody including a court to consider because the Constitution, as the enabling legislation,  takes care of all these challenges. Until it is a law, it is assented to by the President judiciary has no jurisdiction to try to find into it.

    “This is noteworthy, we have to take this seriously or else our legislative authority is being taken away from us by other agencies and arms of government, that should be resisted by this house, or else your being here is of no consequence.

    “The law is very clear on this and so until a bill is assented to by the president nobody has any business to take that process that is being considered by the House to the court, I don’t want to preempt the judgment of the Supreme Court in this matter but I have given notice because on daily basis I am being served with writs as party on matters that are being considered by the House, that is why I am compelled to say this.”

    His remarks coincide with the Supreme Court’s scheduled ruling on July 17, 2024, concerning Dr. Amanda Odoi’s application for an interlocutory injunction against Parliament’s transmission of the anti-gay bill to the presidency.

    On the same day, the court will also consider an application from media personality and lawyer Richard Dela Sky.

    This follows arguments presented by the plaintiffs’ lawyers, including Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and Thaddeus Sory, counsel for the Speaker of Parliament.

    Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, leading a 5-member panel, highlighted that the court will issue separate rulings for each of the two cases during the closing remarks after today’s hearing.

    The panel comprises Justice Mariama Owusu, Justice Prof. Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, Justice Ernest Gaewu, and Justice Yaw Darko Asare.

    Currently, the Supreme Court is addressing two lawsuits challenging Parliament’s passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill. Richard Dela Sky is specifically contesting the constitutionality of Parliament’s approval of the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.”

    He argues that the bill violates several provisions of the 1992 Constitution, including Article 33(5) and Articles 12(1) and (2), 15(1), 17(1) and (2), 18(2), and 21(1)(a)(b)(d) and (e).

    Richard Dela Sky is pursuing eight reliefs, one of which seeks an order declaring that the Speaker of Parliament violated Article 108(a)(ii) of the Constitution by permitting the passage of the bill, which imposes charges on the Consolidated Fund or other public funds of Ghana.

    Dr. Amanda Odoi has voiced objections to certain provisions within the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.

    She seeks a restraining order aimed at preventing the Speaker, the Attorney-General, and the Clerk of Parliament from forwarding the bill to President Akufo-Addo for approval.

  • I will lead Parliament without partisan politics – Speaker Bagbin

    I will lead Parliament without partisan politics – Speaker Bagbin

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has pledged to steer the Ghanaian Parliament with impartiality, emphasizing his commitment to putting national interest above partisan politics.

    His comments were made in reference to the recent protests in Kenya, which highlighted the dangers of political unrest and the need for unity and transparency in governance.

    In a recent address to the press in Kumasi, Speaker Bagbin highlighted the critical role of Parliament in safeguarding Ghana’s democracy, particularly as the country prepares for the pivotal December 7 elections.

    He stressed that his leadership will focus on fostering unity and collaboration among Members of Parliament (MPs) to ensure that legislative processes serve the best interests of all Ghanaians.

    “People sometimes take so many things for granted including my colleagues in Parliament, but we all can bear witness that what happened in Kenya is now in Tanzania, and it could be in Ghana and I am not saying it will be in Ghana.

    “We are not different from our brothers and sisters in Kenya and so we have to take preemptive measures to prevent that from happening and so we must do all we can to make sure that the right person that Ghanaians want to lead the country, leads the country and so in this matter, I will do all I can so that nobody reads partisanship in whatever I do,” he said.

    Bagbin referenced the recent upheaval in Kenya, where massive protests forced the government to withdraw a controversial financial bill.

    He drew parallels between the situation in Kenya and potential risks in Ghana, urging leaders to take heed and prioritize the country’s stability.

  • Your preliminary objection in Anti-LGBTQI Bill case was baseless – Supreme Court tells Speaker’s lawyer

    Your preliminary objection in Anti-LGBTQI Bill case was baseless – Supreme Court tells Speaker’s lawyer

    The Supreme Court conveyed its dissatisfaction on Wednesday, May 8, informing the Speaker’s legal team that their preliminary objection in the anti-LGBTQ+ bill case had needlessly consumed the court’s resources.

    The apex court rejected the Speaker of Parliament’s lawyer, Thaddeus Sory’s preliminary objection in the case.

    During the televised court session, attorneys representing broadcast journalist Richard Sky, who initiated the case, sought to modify one of the reliefs in the injunction motion.

    However, Thaddeus Sory, representing the Speaker of Parliament, opposed this amendment, citing prior objections raised in filed documents and arguing that allowing the amendment would undermine his objection.

    After deliberation, the Chief Justice Gertrude Torkoornoo-led Justices of the Supreme Court ruled, stating, “our considered view is that the preliminary objection is unnecessary and does not seek to assist any process before this court.”

    The court maintained that every party possesses the inherent right to present their case’s appropriate formulation for the court’s determination of the actual issues in contention, ultimately dismissing the objection.

    The Chief Justice further admonished the Speaker’s legal team, remarking, “You have taken our time and energy for nothing.”

    Ghanaian Journalist Richard Dela Sky and Researcher Dr. Amanda Odoi are scheduled to appear before the Supreme Court today, Wednesday, May 8, 2024, to proceed with their respective lawsuits challenging the passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.

  • I will not allow you undermine the will of the people – Speaker tells Akufo-Addo

    I will not allow you undermine the will of the people – Speaker tells Akufo-Addo

    Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has reaffirmed his commitment to safeguard Ghana’s sovereignty and uphold its democratic principles amidst potential government interference.

    This firm stance follows a directive from President Akufo-Addo, dated March 18, 2024, instructing Parliament not to transmit the anti-LGBTQ bill for his approval.

    In a Facebook post, Speaker Bagbin unequivocally stated, “The Parliament of Ghana under my leadership will resist any attempts to undermine our democracy.

    “We will not allow the government to disregard the will of the people as expressed through their elected representatives.”

    The Speaker emphasized the significance of protecting Ghana’s cultural heritage and reclaiming elements lost due to historical injustices.

    “Our cultural values have suffered greatly due to colonialism and the slave trade. It is our duty as the current generation to protect what remains and even restore what has been lost,” Bagbin emphasized.

    He urged President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to avoid trivializing the democratic process.

    “I urge the government, led by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, to avoid actions that undermine our democratic traditions,” Bagbin cautioned.

    He urged President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to avoid trivializing the democratic process.

    The Speaker concluded by expressing gratitude to Ghanaians for their steadfast commitment to upholding truth and democracy.

  • Evangelist Nana Agradaa honored with Doctorate in Philanthropic Management

    Evangelist Nana Agradaa honored with Doctorate in Philanthropic Management

    Formerly known as Nana Agradaa, now Evangelist Tupac, has achieved a significant milestone in her transformation journey.

    In a recently surfaced video, the evangelist was captured in what appeared to be a ceremony held in her church where she was being honoured.

    According to reports, she has been bestowed with a doctorate in philanthropic management, recognizing her notable contributions to philanthropy.

    Addressing the gathering, a speaker declared, “By the authority of the trustees of this college and by the recommendation of each faculty, after evaluation and dedication to humanity, and the grace of God, the college hereby confers on Rev. Evangelist Mrs. Patricia Asiamah doctor of philosophy in philanthropic management.”

    Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Nana Agradaa thanked the organizers.

    However, she didn’t miss the chance to criticize Ghanaians who fail to comprehend the significance of her new title.

    Watch video below:

  • Stop violating constitutional rules – Haruna Iddrisu tells Bagbin

    Stop violating constitutional rules – Haruna Iddrisu tells Bagbin

    The former leader of the Minority in Parliament, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, has accused Speaker Alban Bagbin of violating the constitutional rules outlined in Article 124 of the 1992 Constitution.

    According to Mr Iddrisu, the Speaker failed to adhere to the stipulations of this article, which requires the establishment of a committee to assist in selecting members for the Parliamentary Service Board following changes in the Minority group last year.

    Mr Iddrisu raised this concern during the formation of a committee to aid the Speaker in appointing individuals to the Parliamentary Service Board following recent changes in the Majority group.

    He emphasized, “The changes in the Minority leadership happened over a year ago. So, what has the Parliamentary Service Board been doing with the Speaker and Ato Forson? That is against the Constitution”.

    “The Speaker, Mr. Alban Bagbin, is not above the Constitution. He’s not above the rules, and so, when we’re talking about wrong things, it’s a problem when they break the rules of the Constitution.”

    Contrary to Iddrisu’s claims, the Majority Leader, Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, asserted that Mr. Bagbin followed the correct procedures when Iddrisu vacated his position.

  • Sunyani East MP leads Friday’s parliamentary proceedings due to Speaker’s absence

    Sunyani East MP leads Friday’s parliamentary proceedings due to Speaker’s absence

    The Member of Parliament for Sunyani East, Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, has been put forward as the Presiding Speaker for the upcoming parliamentary session on Friday.

    This nomination occurred due to the absence of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, and his two Deputies, Joseph Osei Owusu and Andrew Asiamah Amoako.

    In adherence to the updated standing orders, the Clerk of Parliament conducted the nomination process for Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh as the Presiding Speaker.

    The proposal for this nomination was made by the Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, and seconded by the Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza.

  • Ameyaw-Cheremeh takes Speaker’s chair during Friday’s proceedings

    Ameyaw-Cheremeh takes Speaker’s chair during Friday’s proceedings

    Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, the Member of Parliament for Sunyani East, has been nominated as the Presiding Speaker for Friday’s parliamentary proceedings.

    This nomination arose due to the absence of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, and his two Deputies, Joseph Osei Owusu and Andrew Asiamah Amoako.

    The nomination of Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh as the Presiding Speaker was conducted by the Clerk of Parliament in accordance with the new standing orders.

    The proposal was made by the Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, and seconded by the Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza.

  • Religious, traditional leaders crucial for effective governance – Bagbin

    Religious, traditional leaders crucial for effective governance – Bagbin

    The visit of Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, to the Nanung traditional area marked Ghana’s 30th democracy anniversary, shedding light on the critical role of traditional leaders in governance.

    During the visit, Bagbin emphasized the need for traditional leaders to have a rightful place in the country’s governance structure and criticized the constitutional restriction preventing their participation in partisan politics.

    He called for community support in prioritizing peace for development and urged backing for presidential candidates from the North, stating it’s their turn to lead the country.

    Addressing the gathering, the Regent of Bimbilla, through Kpatihi Naa, Natogmah Azindow, appealed to Speaker Bagbin to leverage his position for the restoration of traditional authorities, highlighting the diminished influence of chiefs in their titular roles.

    Bagbin acknowledged the importance of traditional leaders in democracy and expressed hope that ongoing constitutional reviews would rectify their exclusion from active partisan politics.

    Regent Nyelinbulgu Naa Dassana Andani Yakubu expressed gratitude to Speaker Bagbin for his visit to Nanung, emphasizing the vital role of traditional leaders in the community.

  • Speaker sets up adhoc committee to probe delay in payment of funds to Gold Coast Fund customers

    Speaker sets up adhoc committee to probe delay in payment of funds to Gold Coast Fund customers

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has established a special committee to investigate the non-payment of customers of the defunct Gold Coast Fund, despite budgetary allocations.

    The decision was prompted by a petition from affected customers, presented to Parliament by Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central. Mr Ayariga stressed the urgency of addressing the issue promptly to alleviate the impact on the affected individuals.

    “I wish to present a petition by customers of defunct Gold Coast Fund Management. Mr Speaker, pursuant to Order 76 (3), I move that the petition be read and I also move that by Order 76(3) that the Petition be referred to a committee pursuant to Order 191 of our Standing Orders which deals with the constitution of special or adhoc committees to look into matters referred to it by Mr Speaker.”

    Subsequently, the Speaker named the members of the committee and encouraged them to initiate their work promptly.

    “I therefore establish a committee to receive the petition to investigate and report to the house,” the Speaker said.

    The Committee will be chaired by Joe Ghartey, the Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan Constituency. The other members include Nii Lante Vanderpuye, Benjamin Yeboah Sekyere, Gizella Tettteh-Agbotui, Kwasi Ameyaw Kyeremeh and two technical experts; namely; Dr Theophilus Acheampong and Anthonio Kisseh.

    The Gold Coast Fund Management was a duly registered and accredited fund management company regulated by the Securities Exchange Commission of Ghana (SEC).

    The funds of the petitioners, valued at about GHC5 billion were locked up in the defunct Gold Coast Fund Management following the decision of the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Finance and Economic to carry out a financial sector cleanup exercise initiated in 2018.

    Following the financial sector cleanup exercise, the petitioners successfully submitted and validated their claims through Price Waterhouse and Coppers (PWC).

    The Regulator (SEC) budgeted an amount of GHC8 billion for total payment of the claims of customers of all the 47 defunct fund management companies.

    Parliament approved funds for the Financial Sector Cleanup Exercise and the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning publicly reported that he has completed the exercise and has expended Ghc25 billion in this regard.

    Government’s accounting showed that this sum included the Ghc8.6 billion meant to pay claims of investors in the 47 defunct fund management companies including Gold Coast Fund Management.

  • Speaker prompted of Atta Akyea’s ‘bias conduct’ in IGP leaked tape probe

    Speaker prompted of Atta Akyea’s ‘bias conduct’ in IGP leaked tape probe

    The allegations of bias against the chairman of the committee investigating the leaked tape regarding the plot to remove Dr. George Akuffo Dampare from his role as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) do not appear to be subsiding.

    Several civil society groups, including Imani Ghana and CDD-Ghana, have chosen to report Samuel Atta Akyea to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin.

    Following their meeting with the Speaker, the President of Imani Ghana, Franklin Cudjoe, stated that Mr. Atta Akyea has been diverting the committee’s focus away from its designated terms of reference.

    This deviation, he contends, has had a negative impact on the atmosphere and morale within the Ghana Police Service, necessitating immediate intervention by the Speaker.

    Mr. Cudjoe emphasized that the Abuakwa South lawmaker appears to be acting as both judge and jury within his own courtroom.

    “We wanted to find out from the Speaker what the original terms of reference for the Committee were. Because we realized that the Committee chairman seems to be setting his questions and answering them.”

    “The Speaker was categorical that well, look, I gave the Chairman of the Committee specific terms of reference. To get the authenticity of the tape, basically, those comments that were made and the persons who made them,” Mr Cudjoe said.

    Mr Samuel Atta Akyea has refuted the accusations of bias made against him. He contends that he has overseen the proceedings of the Committee impartially and without prejudice.

    “The word doctored I used is what did not sit well with him, but what I said is deduced from how it started. Was I not together with my committee members who afforded the IGP the best opportunity to speak to the press?” 

    Prior to this, Kwame Gyan, who serves as Counsel for Dr. Dampare, expressed his public disappointment regarding Mr. Atta Akyea’s leadership of the committee. He firmly maintained that the MP was treating his client unfairly. According to Kwame Gyan, the chairman, who should ideally remain impartial toward the witnesses, has exhibited clear biases.

    In an interview with JoyNews on Monday, October 9, the outspoken lawyer emphasized that Mr. Atta Akyea appears to be pursuing a specific agenda in this matter.

    “He has his agenda. He will be granting media interviews to the extent that after one sitting, he went out there and said the extended tape submitted by Bugri Naabu, which had not been played at the committee, has been doctored. Very prejudicial comments,” he said.

  • Speaker of Canada’s House of Commons apologizes after praising war veteran from Ukraine

    Speaker of Canada’s House of Commons apologizes after praising war veteran from Ukraine

    The speaker for Canada’s House of Commons expressed remorse for commemorating a Ukrainian soldier associated with a Nazi-affiliated faction during World War II.

    Speaker Anthony Rota praised 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka during a speech on Friday. Hunka was recognized as both a Ukrainian and Canadian veteran during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the Canadian parliament.

    The person speaking praised Hunka as a brave soldier who fought in the First Ukrainian Division. They said Hunka fought to protect Ukraine from the Russian attackers in the past, and still supports the military today.

    “I recently found out more information that makes me feel sorry for my choice,” stated Rota in a message his office released on Sunday. He said, “I am very sorry to Jewish communities in Canada and around the world. ”

    Many groups that support human rights and the Jewish community have criticized the acknowledgement, stating that Hunka was a part of a Nazi military group called the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS.

    According to a statement from Jewish human rights organization B’nai Brith Canada, Hunka, who moved to Canada after being in the 14th Waffen SS, a Nazi group that supported Adolf Hitler during World War II, got a big round of applause from the members of Parliament and senators who were there.

    The CEO of B’nai Brith Canada, Michael Mostyn, said in a statement that the parliament’s acknowledgement of Hunka is “extremely shocking. ”

    We must not let history be distorted. Canadian soldiers fought and lost their lives in the battle to liberate the world from the cruel and oppressive actions of the Nazis,” Mostyn mentioned.

    The 14th Waffen Grenadier Division was a group that was part of the Nazi SS organization. The International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg declared this organization a criminal group because they had done bad things during war, like committing war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    B’nai Brith criticized the Ukrainian volunteers who joined the military unit for being extreme nationalists who wanted Ukraine to have only one ethnic group and supported the idea of removing other ethnic groups.

    The human rights group wants parliament to say sorry.

    Rota said he is fully responsible for recognizing Hunka, who he said comes from his voting area.

    “I want to emphasize that before I spoke, nobody, not even my fellow parliamentarians or the Ukraine delegation, knew about my intention or the things I was going to say,” Rota explained. “I took this initiative by myself because someone from my area caught my attention. ”

  • Speaker announces Parliament’s intention to fast-track Budget bill

    Speaker announces Parliament’s intention to fast-track Budget bill

    The Budget bill, which tries to give Members of Parliament (MPs) a say in what goes into the national budget, is being pushed for quick passage by the Speaker of the House, Alban Sumana Bagbin.

    According to Mr. Bagbin, the bill will force the administration to take action on important national concerns by integrating parliament in the process of creating the national budget, whereby priority are assigned to various sectors with regard to allocations.

    “This is a very important subject matter and I believe that one of the ways we could support national leadership to find solution, is for us to pass the Budget Act,” he said.

    He said every rainy season parts of the country experience flooding that leads to loss of lives and property, yet successive governments have failed to find a lasting solution to this problem – adding that the Budget bill is critical to prioritising and addressing some of the country’s social issues, including ending the perennial flooding recorded during rainy seasons.

    “Since I entered parliament in 1993, we have had so many statements of this nature (flooding) almost every year and we are not finding solutions to the problem; and I think it starts from the priority-setting. Parliament must be involved at that stage, not wait until a month to end of the year when the budget is thrust upon you and you have no time even by the constitutional provisions to talk about increasing the allocations – the provisions that have been made to various sector.

    “I think we have to pass the Budget Act so that we have early entry at the time of discussions on the budget, including the planning and priority-setting,” the Speaker emphasised.

    His remarks come on the back of comments by the MP for Adaklu, Kwame Governs Agbodza, on the floor of parliament about floods in some parts of Accra resulting from last week Wednesday’s downpour.

    News reports suggest that, so far, a lady and her two children are missing at Bortianor-Ngleshie Amamfrom due to the floods – which also led to other residents being injured and some properties damaged.

    Similarly, in March this year two people lost their lives in the same area due to flooding.

    In his statement, Mr. Agbodza – who is also the Minority Chief Whip – commiserated with the area’s MP and called on the Minister for Works and Housing to apprise the House [parliament] on steps his ministry is taking to avert further damage and loss of lives as the rains continue.

    “For the past several lyyears, there has not been any major desilting of drains in Accra. As a House and as a country, we need to take this very serious and see what we can do to at least minimise the damage that is happening in these areas.

    “It is not beyond the capability of parliament to help the relevant agencies to finance needed interventions to save lives. Desilting gutters or the major drains in Accra cannot be something beyond the funding of government with the approval of parliament,” he noted.

    He added: “We would like to see what government is going to do when the mid-year budget comes to the House”.

    Budget bill

    The Budget bill seeks to set a budget office in parliament that enables MPs to scrutinise the country’s national budget and economic policy.

    Currently, the only role the legislature plays in the budget process is to either approve or disapprove government’s budget when it is presented before the House by the Minister of Finance.

    Earlier this month, when parliament reconvened from break, leadership of both sides of the house told the press corps that the Budget bill is among those listed on the meeting’s agenda.

    Finance, Works and Housing Minister to brief House

    The Speaker has since directed that the Minister responsible for Works and Housing and the Finance Minster be programmed by the Business Committee to brief the House on actions being taken to address the recurrent flooding menace.

  • Akufo-Addo urges Speaker to hasten Torkornoo’s approval as CJ

    Akufo-Addo urges Speaker to hasten Torkornoo’s approval as CJ

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has been entreated by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to expedite the appointment of Justice Gertrude Torkonoo as the new Chief Justice.

    The President emphasized in a letter to the Speaker that this is being done to prevent a vacancy in the Chief Justice’s position upon Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah’s retirement as the departing head of the judiciary.

    “It is my respectful hope that the approval by Parliament of Justice Torkonoo can proceed expeditiously to enable her assume office as soon as practicable following the retirement of Chief Justice Anin Yeboah”, parts of the letter read.

    Last week, the President nominated Gertrude Araba Esabaa Torkornoo, a Justice of the Supreme Court, as the next Chief Justice of Ghana.

    Her nomination is subject to approval by Parliament.

    When approved by Parliament, Justice Torkornoo will replace Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah, who retires as Chief Justice on May 24, this year, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 70 for justices of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

    In a letter to the Council of State, President Akufo-Addo said Justice Torkornoo who has been “on the Supreme Court for the last four (4) and has been a member of the Judiciary for the last nineteen (19) years is duly qualified and eminently fit to discharge the functions of Chief Justice.”

    Justice Torkornoo will become the third female Chief Justice in history, following the footsteps of Justices Georgina Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo.

    Justice Torkornoo will be President Akufo-Addo’s third appointment to the office of Chief Justice since he assumed office in January 2017.

    Already, the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has massively endorsed the nomination of Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as the incoming Chief Justice.

    JUSAG wants Justice Torkornoo, whose nomination is subject to Parliamentary approval, to outrank current Chief Justice Anin Yeboah as the best Chief Justice with the issues of labour at heart.

  • Censure committee ends sittings; requests for more time to file report

    The ad-hoc committee tasked by the Speaker of Parliament to probe the censure motion filed against the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, is requesting for more time to file its report.

    The request was announced by a co-chairman of the committee, Dominic Ayine after the committee, concluded its proceedings on Friday, November 18, 2022, after hours of grilling the Finance Minister.

    “Today is the last day that was given to us by Mr. Speaker, hopefully we will apply to the Speaker for extension of time to be able to file our report next week, and the purpose of the report is to simply continue the debate on the motion for the vote of censure. And the report will be laid in Parliament hopefully next week Tuesday,” he concluded in his remarks.

    KT Hammond, another co-chair, announced that the committee would have to present a draft copy of the report to the Finance Minister to ensure that his responses are properly captured before the full report is tabled before Parliament for debate.

    Seven allegations have been levelled against the Finance Minister by the Minority in Parliament, calling for his removal from office.

    The Minister is accused of conflict of interest, gross mismanagement, recklessness of the economy among others.

    The committee was given seven days by the Speaker to probe the censure of motion, which ended today.

    The Committee was set up by the Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, chaired by Dominic Ayine and K.T Hammond.

    The fate of the Finance Minister will be known after the committee had presented its report to the Speaker, as to whether the censure of vote will go in his favour or otherwise.

    Source: Citinews

  • Parliament implements mandatory body scan into Chamber

    Parliament has announced a raft of stringent security measures such as mandatory body scan for everybody including the speaker of Parliament.

    The House through the Marshall’s office is also considering the idea of banning the use of mobile phones by journalists in the press gallery.

    This idea is however vehemently opposed to by leadership and members of the Parliamentary Press Corps.

    In announcing some of the security measures on the floor, speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin explained the decision to enhance security in the legislative house is for the good of members, staff and visitors given the times the country finds itself.

    “It’s compulsory for all Members including me, Speaker to pass through the machine to be scanned before we enter the Chamber of Parliament. All strangers who are also to do so, who intend coming in, whether to the public gallery, or to the Press gallery, or to the important visitors’ gallery are all to pass through the scanning machine. It’s for your own good that we want to implement this rule.

    “So please, starting from tomorrow, any person who is not willing to pass through this machine will definitely not be allowed to enter this chamber.”

  • ‘You’re completely out of order’: How Muntaka vs. Bagbin showdown played out

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin and the Minority Chief Whip, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka clashed in Parliament on Thursday, November 10, 2022, when a motion of censure against Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta was moved by Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu.

    After a preliminary objection was raised by Deputy Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and shot down; the speaker delivered a ruling in which he directed that the vote of censure be referred to a committee.

    But the Minority through Muntaka sought to explain why there was no need for a referral to a committee but instead why there was the need to proceed to a vote on the matter citing wording in the relevant rules.

    Muntaka’s submission appeared to have veered into an area where the Speaker robustly stepped in, charging the MP of attacking his ruling.

    He ordered Muntaka to retract and apologize, which order Muntaka expressly refused to heed neither did he listen to orders to resume his seat.

    The Speaker subsequently ordered all he said when he had been asked to sit to be expunged from the Hansard – i.e. the official records of the House.

    Below is a transcript of the Bagbin vs. Muntaka banter:

    Muntaka: Mr. Speaker, with all respect and humility to you, in this text, nowhere did it say Mr. Speaker will refer the matter to any ad hoc committee. It says that the House will take a decision and decisions in this House Mr. Speaker is taken by vote.

    So, if any member can move a motion… Mr. Speaker, it is for the decision of this House, that is what Order 106 is saying.

    Bagbin: Hon, you are completely, completely out of order. Hon. Member, I don’t take my rulings lightly, please. You are attacking my ruling and I think you don’t have that authority to do so. If you want to attack my ruling, come by a substantive motion.

    Your understanding of ‘during the debate,’…. debate of matters before the House is not only during the plenary session. At the committee level, what you do there is to debate. That is why when you agree at the committee level and you come and put the matter here, you don’t waste time to debate again.

    Bagbin proceeded to explain that plenary rules applied to the committee level, explaining further that the decision is taken by the House not the speaker but also that the rules say motion for censure “will be made by a member and referred to a committee, that is exactly what I said I am going to do.”

    Muntaka: The House is defined in this Standing Orders as Parliament and Mr. Speaker, Parliament is this Chamber with 275 members.

    Bagbin: Hon. Member please, the House cannot be constituted without a speaker. You must understand that. It is when a Speaker is presiding that it becomes a House. You can’t have this room with 275 Members seated here and call yourself a House.

    Move away from the understanding that you are the makers of everything here, I have been listening to you, don’t give me that temptation.

    Muntaka sought permission to continue his submission and was granted, Bagbin, however, added: “but I think that you have to withdraw what you said. Hon. Member, you have to withdraw it and apologize.”

    Muntaka: I’m happy you’ve given me permission to speak, one of the cardinals of democracy is to listen to each other even when we disagree with each other, stressing that ruling was wrong and cannot be right.

    Bagbin: Hon. Member resume your seat, resume your seat.

    Muntaka: Mr. Speaker, I come to second the motion with the clear indication that any attempt to move this matter to a committee will be a travesty of justice done to the chamber of this House.

    Bagbin: Hon. Members, I direct that all what the Minority Chief Whip has said after I have told him to withdraw and apologize, be expunged from the records. I so direct. Hansard expunge everything from the record.

    Minority Chief Whip, you’ll have a difficulty in catching my eye again.

    How motion of censure against Ofori-Atta was argued

    The Minority Leader filed a motion of censure late last month against Minister for Finance Ken Ofori-Atta.

    The motion was duly admitted by Speaker Alban Bagbin and on November 10, the motion was moved by Haruna Iddrisu to trigger debate and a vote on the same.

    Speaker Bagbin, however, in his interpretation of the rules the Minority relied on referred the issue to an 8-member ad hoc committee formed to probe the Minority’s claims against the Finance Minister.

    The committee co-chaired by Dominic Ayine (NDC) and KT Hammond (NPP) is expected to present their report in seven days, following which the House will proceed with the censure process or otherwise.

  • NPP MPs threaten to drag Speaker to court over Adwoa Safo ruling

    The majority in parliament claims it is considering taking Alban Bagbin, speaker of the house, to the Supreme Court for his decision about Sarah Adwoa Safo, a member of parliament from Dome-Kwabenya.

    The majority leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, called the decision “unfortunate” and suggested that the Speaker might have erred in his interpretation of the legislation.

    “If we lend ourselves by what I consider to be a very capricious ruling, then the Supreme Court would be the final arbiter,” he added.

    The issue whether the Dome Kwabenya MP should lose her seat for missing more than 15 sittings must be discussed by the entire House, according to Alban Bagbin’s ruling.

    Her continuous absence from Parliament divided the House with the Majority interestingly taking the view that the Privileges Committee report should be final.

    Majority MPs to drag Bagbin to Supreme Court over Adwoa Safo rulingMajority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu

    “As I have noted in this ruling, the decision as to whether or not to admit a motion is the exclusive preserve of the Speaker. In view of the foregoing, the House is well within its rights to receive and consider the report of the Committee and make a determination arising out of the recommendation,” Mr Bagbin ruled.

    But the Suame MP says the Speaker was wrong and they are determined to fight it before the debate.

    “When they [Privileges Committee] have made that determination, it doesn’t come back to Parliament for Parliament to vote on it. So for the Speaker to come in with what I consider very unfortunate interpretation of the Constitution… this is a matter of the interpretation of the Constitution and it can go to the Supreme Court,” he added.

    A day after the Speaker’s ruling, an NPP legislator commenced the process of filing a suit at the Supreme Court to have her seat declared vacant.

    In documents cited by Myjoyonline.com, the MP is praying the Court that by failing to appear before the Privileges Committee to explain her absence from Parliament, Sarah Adwoa Safo ceases to be a Member of Parliament.

    The Ahafo Ano North MP, Sulemana Adamu Sanid, is contesting the Speaker’s ruling.

    “A declaration that upon a true and proper interpretation of Article 97(1)(c) of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, a member of Parliament who absents himself/herself, without permission in writing of the Speaker and he/she is unable to offer a reasonable explanation to the Parliamentary Committee on privileges, from fifteen sittings of a meeting of Parliament during any period that Parliament has been summoned to meet and continues to meet, automatically forfeits his/her membership of the Parliament of Ghana,” portions of the reliefs read.

    Background

    Before going on recess in July, Mr. Bagbin deferred his ruling on whether the Dome-Kwabenya seat should be declared vacant or not following Madam Safo’s failure to honour an invite by the Privileges Committee on her continuous absence from Parliament.

    Mr. Bagbin, on May 4, referred Madam Safo, Mr. Henry Quartey, MP of Ayawaso Central, and Mr. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, MP, Assin Central, to the Privileges Committee for absenting themselves from 15 sittings of the House without his permission.

    That was during the First Session of the Eighth Parliament.

    The Committee failed to achieve a consensus in its recommendations on whether absenting herself for more than the mandatory 15 days without permission warranted her seat being declared vacant.

    Majority MPs to drag Bagbin to Supreme Court over Adwoa Safo rulingDome-Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo

    The Majority, however, wants the seat declared vacant without delay in line with stated constitutional provisions.

    It observed that Madam Safo failed to take advantage of the numerous opportunities to explain her absence without leave.

    Meanwhile, the Majority of MPs on the Committee cited Article 97 (1) (c) of the 1992 Constitution and the Court of Appeal decision in the case of Prof Stephen Kwaku Asare v the Attorney-General & 3 Ors, in this regard.

    The Minority MPs on the Committee, argued that according to the principle of natural justice, the seat should not be declared vacant because Madam Safo did not provide her side of the story to the Committee.

    The Committee, however, determined that the explanation offered by her two colleagues, Mr. Agyepong and Mr. Quartey for absenting themselves, were reasonable.

    A copy of the report made available to the Ghana News Agency before recess, showed that the Committee members gave a split decision on the fate of Madam Safo.

  • Why Alban Bagbin resigned from Ghana Bar Association

    Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin announced that he is no longer part of the Ghana Bar Association on September 23, 2022.

    His reason was that the association has become problematic and people are worried about its position on matters of national interest.

    He added that the GBA has become an association of the elites emphasizing that despite the fact that he pays his dues, he got to know that any lawyer that attended the public tribunal was not recognized, and thus his interest in GBA diminished.

    The Speaker of Parliament made this revelation when a delegation from a newly-created association of lawyers: the Law Society of Ghana (LSG) paid a courtesy call to him at his office.

    Even though he did not confirm if he has joined the new society, he advised LSG to come up with reasoned opinions and critique law reports, and publish them in journals.

    The Ghana Bar Association is a professional association of lawyers in Ghana, including what used to be called solicitors and barristers but is now called legal practitioners, as well as magistrates. By convention, all lawyers admitted to practice in Ghana become automatic members of the association.

    However, in March 2022, some lawyers in the country reportedly registered a new company to compete with the Ghana Bar Association (GBA).

    The new company goes by the name “Law Society of Ghana” (Limited by Guarantee, LBG).

  • Proposed draft bill on witchcraft in the pipeline – Speaker of Parliament

    Parliament has proposed a draft bill that will among other objectives prohibit the practice of professional Witchcraft or Wizardry and the declaration of a person as a Witch or Wizard and the molestation of a person on suspicion of being a Witch or Wizard.

    This follows the recent beating to death of a 90-year-old woman by a group of persons on suspicion that the 90-year-old Woman being a Witch.

    The Speaker of Parliament Rt Hon Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye announced this in Parliament last Friday before the House went on recess as the Second Meeting of the 4th Session (Year) of the 7th Parliament ended last Friday.

    According to the Speaker, a Consultant on Private Members Bill, who has been engaged by Parliament is working on the draft bill which will be submitted to the House for consideration and passage into Law.

    Rt Hon Prof Michael Aaron Oquaye congratulated members of Parliament for their hard work which ensured the successful completion of the Second Meeting of the House.

    “During the Second Meeting made up of 12 weeks of intensive work, 13 bills were passed into law whilst 11 Constitutional, Legislative and Executive Instruments were also passed by the House, ” the Speaker said.

    In the Second Meeting, the House also adopted a motion for the enactment of Private Members Bill.

    The Minister of Finance Mr Ken Ofori-Atta also presented the Mid-Year Review of the 2020 Budget statement and economic policy of the government and the subsequent approval by the House of a supplementary Budget estimate of Ghc 11.8 billion for 2020 financial year.

    Source: Peace FM

  • Speaker’s decision to recall MPs after indefinite suspension unreasonable – James Agalga

    The Minority in Parliament is protesting the Speaker’s decision to recall members for a two-day emergency sitting.

    The Minority threatened to drag the Speaker to the Supreme Court over his decision to suspend the House indefinitely.

    According to the Minority, the Speaker was supposed to adjourn the House and not suspend it indefinitely as he did. They described the act as illegal.

    Ranking member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee, James Algalga says the decision to recall them just after 3 days of suspension is unreasonable.

    The Speaker’s decision to recall us just three days after suspending House indefinitely is quite unreasonable because members have travelled long distances to their constituencies. Travelling long distances poses danger to the lives of members of parliament, so what was the need to suspend the House indefinitely. I am here in Kumasi so if I return I will make a decision”.

    MP for Kumbungu Constituency in the Northern Region, Ras Mubarak is also unhappy about the recall.

    “The way Parliament is being used as the government’s nodding donkey is not the best. The Minister for Finance will be appearing tomorrow to present a policy statement and he had all the time to do so, he could have done so on Friday and Saturday, many members are currently not in Accra and you are asking them to drive all the way back in a hurry which is risky”.

    A notice signed by Kate Addo Director of Public Affairs in Parliament read “The Minister of Finance is scheduled to present a policy statement to the House in accordance with standing order 70 clause 2 on matters relating to government measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease as well as to facilitate the transaction of any other business”.

    The House is also expected to approve the appointment of Ledzokuku MP, Bernard Okoe-Boye as Deputy Health Minister.

     

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • Speaker donates half of his three month salary to COVID-19 Fund

    The Speaker of Parliament, Prof Aaron Mike Oquaye, has donated half of his monthly salary for three months to the COVID-19 National Trust Fund.

    Prof Oquaye announced his gesture shortly after the Bill was passed in Parliament on Thursday.

    He also announced that Parliament would donate GH₵200,000 to set the fund rolling.

    Making the donation, the Speaker urged all Members of Parliament and other workers to contribute to the fund to help the fight against the corona virus pandemic.

    Parliament yesterday passed the COVID-19 National Trust Fund Bill under a certificate of urgency.

    The Bill is to establish the fund to complement the efforts of the government in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

    It will also support the needy and the vulnerable who have been afflicted or impacted on by the pandemic and for related matters.

    The passage of the Bill came after the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Ms Gloria Akuffo, had moved the motion for it to be read for the third time, and it was seconded by the Minority Leader, Mr Haruna Iddrisu.

    Source: Graphic.com.ghÂ