Author: Akumaa GhanaMPs

Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw, a National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Wa East and Chairman of the Agric and Cocoa Affairs Committee of Parliament, is representing Ghana at the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) Science Week in Nairobi, Kenya.

This year’s event, scheduled from Monday, April 7 to Saturday, April 12, 2025, and launched on Monday, brings together global leaders in research, policy, and development to discuss innovative solutions for food, land, and water systems transformation.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Accra, ahead of the conference, Dr. Jasaw said it was an opportunity to strengthen research-policy linkages. “As a key figure in Ghana’s agricultural sector, I will share insights into CGIAR’s new Policy Champions Network.

“This initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and policy in agriculture and food systems, promoting evidence-informed decision-making,” he told the GNA. At the Science Week, the MP will engage with policy practitioners from over 26 countries to identify national policy research needs and enhance collaboration between science and policy.

Dr. Jasaw’s expertise in sustainable food systems will be invaluable in shaping and driving the Policy Champions Network. The Chairman of the Agric and Cocoa Affairs Commitee’s participation will help foster partnerships and inspire change for resilient food, water, and land systems. The event’s plenary program features global and regional leaders discussing ways to harness and scale science and innovation.

Some key topics to be discussed during the CGIAR Science Week will include Climate Action; strategies for mitigating climate change impacts on agriculture; Sustainable Farming; launch of the Sustainable Farming Science Program; Capacity Sharing; enhancing capacity development for agricultural research and innovation and Genebanks Accelerator Strategy; accelerating the development and deployment of improved crop varieties.

Dr. Jasaw’s participation in the CGIAR Science Week underscores Ghana’s commitment to strengthening research-policy linkages in agriculture and food systems. The MP’s contributions will help shape the future of agricultural research and policy in Ghana and beyond.

CGIAR is a global partnership that unites organizations engaged in research for a food-secure future, focusing on reducing rural poverty, increasing food security, improving human health and nutrition, and ensuring sustainable management of natural resources.
GNA

The Minority in Parliament has raised concerns over what they say are two suspicious flights that landed in Ghana in March.

According to them, the two flights suspected to be carrying cocaine and an undisclosed amount of cash landed in Ghana between March 20 and March 25,

2025.

Addressing a press conference on April 1, 2025, the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, said the Minority caucus intercepted an intelligence indicating that an air ambulance landed in Ghana without any referral of patients.

He said: “On the matter of AirMed flights and Cavok Air private jets transporting suspected cocaine and cash, ladies and gentlemen, on another security matter related to our airspace, the Minority Caucus calls on National Security to provide the contents of a cargo suspected to be carrying contents suspected to be cocaine and cash imported into the country by two suspicious flights, namely AirMed flight NH23AM and Cavok Air private jet Antonov AN 12 B which landed at the tarmac of Kotoka International Airport on March 2025 from Gran Canaria, an island in Spain and departed to the same Gran Canaria after the arrival.”

It added that reliable intelligence intercepted by the Minority Caucus says that on March 20,2025, AirMed flight NH23AM, which is an air ambulance designed specifically to carry patients, landed at Kotoka International Airport in Accra and remained in the country before departing at 1am on March 25, 2025, back to Gran Canarian Island.

“Our intelligence further posits that no patient was transported by the said air flight neither to or from Accra. There is no evidence of medical referral of patients or onboard the flights on either legs of the flight.

We are reliably informed that contrary to the expectation that the AirMed flight would carry patients, the purpose for which it was designed and operates, it rather, on this —. occasion, carried suspicious Cargo suspected to be cocaine and cash in various United States dollars denominations,” he added The Minority also said a private jet, Cavok Air Antonov ANN12B also landed at the Kotoka International Airport on March 12, 2025 from the same island of Spain, Gran Canaria, and remained in the country for 13 days and departed at 6:40 am on March 25, 202 to Gran Canaria the very day AirMed flight also departed to Gran Canaria.

“While it is intriguing that the two suspicious flights would depart to the same location on the same day, even more intriguing is the cargo suspiciously transported by these aircrafts to and from Gran Canaria, an island known for its notoriety in drug trafficking, money laundering, among others,” the Minority noted. They have, however, called on the National Security to make full disclosure of the content of the cargo carried by these two aircraft into the country, as well as the cargo carried out of the country by the same aircraft to Gran Canaria.

www.ghanaweb.com

On the issue of effectively dealing with waste management at the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), Minister designate for Local Government, Religious Affairs and Chieftaincy Ahmed Ibrahim believes the problem has to do with dis-alignment of Ministry.

According to him all over the World waste management is a Municipal function, and it should be the core duty of the MMDAs as waste management workers are available in every MMDA.

He further added that he has no idea on the contract signed by waste contractors and the question of their decentralization to make it effective. He believes it should fall under the Local Government Ministry and not the previous Sanitation Ministry set up by the immediate NPP administration.

The presence of the Sanitation Ministry, he noted should be properly placed at the Ministry of the Local Government; “sanitation workers are present in every district; once this is done the problem will not be about contract, it will be about supervision and monitoring.

H also affirmed that the Sanitation department of the ministry needs to be strengthened to do proper monitoring, adding that with effective work on sanitation issues the problem can be solve, as it is not an issue of contract.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com

A Session of Parliament marks the period from the commencement of parliamentary activities after a general election until the dissolution of Parliament. The power to summon a new Session lies with the Speaker of Parliament, who acts in accordance with a Constitutional Instrument.

In practice, a new Session begins on the 7th of January following a general election. Throughout a typical Session, Parliament convenes for approximately 28 weeks and takes a recess for about 24 weeks. The regular sitting schedule extends from Tuesday to Friday, amounting to an average of 132 sittings per Session.

A Session of Parliament is subdivided into periods known as Meetings. Each Meeting encompasses the sittings that start when Parliament first meets after being summoned and conclude either with an adjournment sine die (without setting a date for resumption) or at the end of the Session.

Ordinarily, there are three Meetings in a Session:

1. First Meeting: January to March
2. Second Meeting: May to July
3. Third Meeting: October to December

These Meetings facilitate the structured progression of parliamentary business, ensuring that legislative duties are systematically addressed throughout the year.

Understanding the distinction between Sessions and Meetings of Parliament is fundamental for those engaged in or following parliamentary affairs. Sessions provide the overarching framework for parliamentary activity, while Meetings allow for organized intervals within that framework. This structure ensures that Parliament operates efficiently, maintaining a balance between active legislative work and necessary recess periods.

Ghanamps.com/Shang Annang Papa Nii

Patricia Appiagyei has been a significant figure in Ghanaian politics, currently serving as the Deputy Majority Leader of the 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana. Her journey in public service has been marked by numerous leadership roles and a steadfast commitment to her constituents.

Patricia Appiagyei was born on November 28, 1956, in Accra, Ghana. She hails from Konongo/Asawase-Kumasi in the Ashanti Region. Her academic journey began at St. Louis Senior Secondary School in Kumasi, followed by a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science Economics/Law from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 1980. She furthered her education with a postgraduate diploma in Development Economics in 1988.

Before venturing into politics, Appiagyei had a distinguished career in economic development. She served as the Executive Director of Marketing at City Investments Company Limited from 1995 to 2010.

Appiagyei’s political career took off when she was appointed Deputy Minister for the Ashanti Region from 2001 to 2005. In 2005, she briefly served as the Deputy Ashanti Regional Minister before becoming the Municipal Chief Executive for Kumasi, a position she held until 2009. Notably, she was the first female Mayor of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, setting a precedent for women in leadership roles within the region.

In 2012, she was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Asokwa Constituency, succeeding Maxwell Kofi Jumah. She successfully retained her seat in the 2016 and 2020 general elections, reinforcing her position as a prominent figure in Ghanaian politics. In 2017, President Nana Akufo-Addo appointed her as the Deputy Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, a role she continues to hold.

Appiagyei’s leadership capabilities were further recognized in February 2024 when she was appointed as the Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament. This followed the promotion of Alexander Afenyo-Markin to Majority Leader, succeeding Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu. Her appointment reflects her extensive experience and dedication to public service.

Hon. Patricia Appiagyei’s role as the Deputy Majority Leader of the 8th Parliament of Ghana is a testament to her enduring dedication to public service and her significant contributions to Ghanaian politics. Her leadership, both in Parliament and in her constituency, continues to inspire many, particularly women in leadership roles across the nation.

Ghanamps.com/Shang Annang Papa Nii

In recent years, Ghana’s legislative landscape has witnessed a significant surge in activity from non-executive legislators, marked by the introduction of ten Private Members’ Bills since July 2020. These bills, proposed by members of parliament not acting on behalf of the executive branch, highlight the proactive efforts of individual lawmakers to influence national policy and address specific issues within the Ghanaian society.

Since July 2020, a total of ten Private Members’ Bills have been introduced in Parliament, spanning a variety of subjects from road safety to criminal justice reform. Of these, five bills have successfully passed through Parliament, with two receiving presidential assent, thereby becoming law.

Key Legislative Initiatives

2020

• Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2020: This bill aimed to enhance road safety regulations and address gaps in the existing traffic laws. It was one of the notable successes among Private Members’ Bills, securing both parliamentary approval and presidential assent.

2021

• Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2021: Another significant bill which sought to update and strengthen the provisions of the criminal code. This bill also received presidential assent, underscoring its importance in the legislative agenda.
• Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021: This controversial bill aimed to uphold traditional family values, sparking widespread debate across the country.
• Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Amendment) Bill, 2021: Proposed changes to the nation’s supreme law to reflect contemporary governance needs.
• Office of the Special Prosecutor (Amendment) Bill, 2021: Sought to amend the framework governing the Office of the Special Prosecutor to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.

2022

• Earmarked Funds Capping And Realignment (Amendment) Bill, 2022: Focused on financial reforms to optimize the use of earmarked funds within the national budget.
• Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2022: Aimed at further reforms in criminal law, reflecting ongoing efforts to modernize legal frameworks.
• Armed Forces (Amendment) Bill, 2022: Proposed updates to the laws governing the armed forces to improve military administration and operations.

2023

• Budget Bill, 2023: Introduced to outline the government’s financial plan and expenditure for the fiscal year, reflecting an essential aspect of parliamentary oversight and financial governance.

The past few years have seen a notable rise in the introduction and passage of Private Members’ Bills in Ghana, reflecting a vibrant and dynamic parliamentary process. As legislators continue to bring diverse issues to the forefront, the impact of these efforts will be felt across various sectors of society, contributing to the ongoing development and governance of the nation.

Ghanamps.com/Shang Annang Papa Nii

Parliament is today, Friday May 17, 2024 having an emergency meeting to consider some urgent government issues.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, earlier on May 10, summoned the Parliamentarians to converge today for parliamentary business after a petition by the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin who invoked Article 112(3) and Order 53 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, allowing 15 per cent of the House members to request an early recall of Parliament.

It is expected that key among the businesses to be considered would be the approval of the Ministers and deputy Ministers vetted for various portfolios.

Ghanamps.com

Ghana’s journey through its democratic epochs has been marked by the ebb and flow of political tides, with the Majority Leader playing a pivotal role in navigating the parliamentary landscape. From the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1992 to the present day, the Majority Leaders have wielded influence, negotiated alliances, and steered legislative agendas.

2nd Parliament (1999-2001): Kwabena Adjei and the Transition

The 2nd Parliament saw Kwabena Adjei assuming the mantle of Majority Leader from 1999 to 2001. His tenure witnessed the nuances of coalition building and the delicate balance of power within the parliamentary framework. In 1998, Korbly Doe Edward Adjaho emerged as a significant figure in the transition, marking a shift in the political dynamics of the time.

3rd Parliament (2001-2005): Felix K Owusu-Agyapong and the Consolidation

As Ghana moved into the 21st century, Felix K Owusu-Agyapong took the reins of Majority Leadership from 2001 to 2005. His tenure symbolized the consolidation of democratic processes and the refinement of parliamentary protocols. Under his stewardship, the legislature grappled with emerging socio-political challenges, setting the stage for future leadership transitions.

4th Parliament (2005-2009): A.O Aidooh to Papa Owusu Ankomah – Transition Amidst Continuity

A.O Aidooh’s leadership from 2005 to 2009 marked a period of transition, paving the way for Papa Owusu Ankomah to assume the mantle of Majority Leader. This transition highlighted the resilience of Ghana’s parliamentary system, wherein leadership changes seamlessly adapt to the evolving political landscape. Ankomah’s tenure underscored the importance of adaptability and strategic foresight in steering legislative affairs.

5th Parliament (2009-2013): Alban S.K. Bagbin and the Coalition Dynamics

Alban S.K. Bagbin’s tenure as Majority Leader from 2009 to 2013 epitomized the intricacies of coalition politics and the art of consensus-building. His collaborative approach, coupled with the astute leadership of Cletus Aplu Avoka in 2009-2010, navigated the complexities of a multi-party system, ensuring the smooth functioning of the legislature amidst divergent ideologies.

6th Parliament (2013-2017): Benjamin NY Kunbour and the Quest for Reform

Benjamin NY Kunbour’s leadership from 2013 to 2017 witnessed a renewed focus on legislative reform and institutional strengthening. His tenure heralded a period of introspection, as Ghana sought to align its parliamentary practices with global standards of governance. Kunbour’s pragmatic approach laid the groundwork for future advancements in parliamentary efficiency and transparency.

7th Parliament (2017-2021): Osei Kyei-Mensah Bonsu – Navigating Uncertainties

Osei Kyei-Mensah Bonsu’s tenure from 2017 to 2021 unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainties and shifting power dynamics. His adept navigation of parliamentary intricacies solidified his reputation as a seasoned statesman and consensus-builder. Bonsu’s leadership exemplified resilience in the face of adversity, as Ghana charted its course through turbulent waters.

8th Parliament (2021-2025): Osei Kyei-Mensah Bonsu to Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin – Passing the Baton

Osei Kyei-Mensah Bonsu’s stewardship from 2021 to 2025 witnessed a smooth transition of power to Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin. This transition underscored the institutional continuity and democratic ethos that define Ghana’s parliamentary system. Afenyo-Markin’s ascension heralds a new chapter in Ghana’s legislative journey, as the nation continues its quest for progress and prosperity.

In retrospect, the evolution of Majority Leadership in Ghana’s Fourth Republic reflects the resilience of democratic institutions and the adaptability of political elites in navigating the complexities of governance. As Ghana strides forward into the future, the legacy of its parliamentary leaders will continue to shape the nation’s democratic narrative, inspiring generations to come.

Ghanamps.com/Shang Annang Papa Nii

Hon. Joseph Henry Owusu-Acheampong, a towering figure in the nation’s political arena, whose impact reverberates through generations. From his humble beginnings to his remarkable ascent to the corridors of power, Owusu-Acheampong’s journey epitomizes dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to Ghana’s progress.

Born in 1941, Owusu-Acheampong’s passion for public service ignited at an early age, setting the stage for a remarkable career marked by integrity and leadership. A founding member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), he embodied the values of social democracy and tirelessly advocated for the welfare of Ghanaians.

Owusu-Acheampong’s political journey saw him serve in various capacities, leaving an indelible mark at every turn. From his role as the Regional Secretary for the Brong-Ahafo Region to his tenure as Majority Leader and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, his leadership reshaped the landscape of Ghana’s legislative branch.

As one of the few members of the 1st Parliament of the 4th Republic with prior parliamentary experience, Owusu-Acheampong played a pivotal role in mentoring his colleagues and rebuilding parliamentary institutions. His astute guidance and dedication to strengthening the legislative branch earned him widespread admiration and respect.

Throughout his tenure, Owusu-Acheampong championed initiatives aimed at fostering accountability and checks on the executive branch. His tenure as Minister for Food and Agriculture underscored his commitment to agricultural development and food security, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth in the sector.

Even after his party lost power in 2000, Owusu-Acheampong remained a steadfast advocate for political renewal and reorganization. His pivotal role as campaign manager during the 2008 elections, which brought the NDC back to power, exemplified his enduring commitment to his party and the nation.

Beyond his political contributions, Owusu-Acheampong’s legacy extended to the Council of State, where he served from 2009 to 2013, providing invaluable counsel and insight into matters of national importance.

Ghanamps.com/ Shang Annang Papa Nii