Accra, Ghana – Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called on Members of Parliament to set aside trivialities and focus on their national duties as the Second Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament commences.
The Speaker emphasized that the Ghanaian public views parliamentary proceedings with a blend of hope and skepticism, weary from what he described as years of unmet expectations.
During his opening remarks, Speaker Bagbin also addressed the issue of absenteeism, reminding MPs to adhere strictly to the Standing Order procedures when seeking permission for absence, stressing that requests must be routed through their respective leaders before reaching his office.
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga outlined the legislative agenda for the session, announcing that several ministers are scheduled to present bills and policies for consideration and approval. These include the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nike, and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah. Notable proposed legislations include the Scholarship Authority Bill, the University for Development Studies Bill, the Ghana Book Development Council Bill, along with amendments to Road Traffic Regulations and the Road Traffic Bill.
In her address, Deputy Minority Leader Mad. Patricia Appiagyei urged Parliament to reclaim its oversight powers. She advocated for the establishment and enforcement of rigorous accountability mechanisms to track statutory funds, presidential travel, donations under the “Mahama Cares Initiative,” and all actions taken under the guise of public interest. Mad. Appiagyei further encouraged the House to boldly challenge any constitutional infractions, misuse of public funds, and assaults on citizen dignity. The current parliamentary session is expected to conclude in the last week of July.
Sankofaonline
