News:
June 20, 2013
Parliament has constituted a 15 member ad hoc committee to make recommendations on article 181(5) of the constitution.
They are Dr. Ben Kumbour, Chairman, Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu, Vice Chairman, Ebo Barton Odro, Joe Ghartey, Cletus Avoka, Papa Owusu Ankomah, James Klutse Avedzi and Dr. Anthony Akoto Osei.
The rest are Alban Bagbin, Alfred Agbesi, William Ofori Boafo, Della Sowah, Sarah Adwoa Safo, Joseph Osei Owusu, Charles Obeng – Inkoom.
The committee has been given one month to ensure that meaning is given to article 181(5).
It provides that Parliamentary approval is required in respect of ”international business transaction” to which the state of Ghana is a party.
Commenting on the issue, the Minority Leader, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu stated that over the past years, events have occured necessitating the need for the provision to be modified and strictly enforced.
One case that comes to mind is the one the Supreme court recently ruled on in which the contract between Waterville BVI, a construction firm and Ghana did not receive Parliamentary approval, but proceeded.
Hon. expressed confidence that the committee which is made up of competent people of considerable experience. He noted that former Attorney Generals, leadership of the House, ranking members among others make up the team.
commenting on the issue make up of the committee, MP for Ho West, Emmanuel Bedzrah suggested the inclusion of more women as it has only two women as members.
MP for Akuapem North, W.O Boafo had earlier proposed that the findings of the committee should not be only a legislation, but made to be binding on the executive.
Speaker of Parliament, Rt.Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho directed the Clerk of Parliament to give the committee the logistical support in their deliberations.
Kwadwo Anim/Ghanamps.gov.gh