A controversy has erupted in Ghana’s Parliament over the suspension of the National Roads Authority Act, which was passed in July 2024. The Act aimed to streamline road infrastructure management by merging the Ghana Highway Authority, the Department of Urban Roads, and the Department of Feeder Roads.
However, just a few weeks into its implementation, Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza suspended the Act, citing unrest among agencies under his ministry. According to Agbodza, the implementation of the Act had generated significant unrest between entities under his Ministry, including Feeder Roads, Urban Roads, and Highways.
But the Minority in Parliament is having none of it. Minority MP Kennedy Osei Nyarko has criticized the move, describing it as an “illegal attempt” by the Ministry of Roads and Highways to suspend an Act passed by Parliament without any recourse to the House. Nyarko emphasized that if there are issues with the Act, the proper procedure is to return to Parliament and ensure the right process is followed.
The suspension of the Act has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The National Roads Authority Act was passed to address challenges in the roads sector, including lack of coordination, duplicated efforts, and inconsistent standards. By suspending the Act, the government may be undermining its own efforts to improve road infrastructure management.
The controversy surrounding the suspension of the National Roads Authority Act is a developing story, and it remains to be seen how it will play out. One thing is certain, however, the Minority in Parliament will continue to oppose the suspension, and the government will need to provide clear justifications for its actions.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
