Category: Uncategorized

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

To commemorate the World Mother’s Day today,  MP for North Dayi Constituency, Hon. Joycelyn Tetteh, has taken her generosity to Anfoega Catholic Hospital where she has cleared all the Medical Bills of the mothers and Children at their respective Wards.

As part of  improving the Maternal Mental Health of these mothers, donated diapers, Soaps, toiletries, soft drinks, half pieces of cloth to all the mothers that were on the wards to lessen their worries in taking care of these innocent children.

To ensure their safety needs, she has given them some token for their transportation to their various communities.

Having helped the clients in the hospital, Hon. Joycelyn thought it wise to as well put smiles on the faces of the Health Workers in the hospital to continue rendering better health delivery services for the good people of North Dayi Constituency, hence did motivate them as well.

The clients, relatives and the workers of the Anfoega Catholic Hospital were so thankful to Hon. MP Joycelyn for ALWAYS coming to their rescue and support.

In her short message, Hon. Joycelyn  advised the young mothers to consider Family Planning to help them space the ages of the children to ensure their Mental and Physical Health . She again appreciated the staff of the hospital for their cares in the constituency.

By Bismark Kwabla Kpobi

The Member of Parliament for Techiman North Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare has commissioned a te- seater WC toilet facility for the people of Ayeasu community.

The MP who was joined by the chiefs and people of the Community said the project is in response to a request made by the chief and people of Ayeasu during her visit last year and forms part of her water and sanitation project in the Techiman North Constituency.

“My heartfelt appreciation to the President, Chief Executive Officer and the entire team of Helping Africa Foundation; USA based NGO, for the provision of funds for the project”, she said in her facebook post.

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

The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has cautioned the Minister of Health designate Dr. Okoe Boye to stop holding himself as representative of the President in a purported creation of new appointment by the chief of staff.

According to a statement signed by the ranking member of the select Committee on Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Ghanaians and the Minority were shock to hear the Minister for Health designate going on an unannounced inspection tour of health facilities as though his appointment is complete as a sector minister.

“Justifying what was arguably a misrepresentation that he had received a Nicodemus letter from the Chief of Staff purporting to have appointed him as the Representative of the President to the Ministry of Health”.

First and foremost, there is no provision within the 1992 constitution that supports the creation of representatives of the President in Ministries of State. Therefore, for a highly regulated power centre such as the Presidency, it is ultra vires for the Chief of Staff who derives all her powers from the President as prescribed by the 1992 constitution to be creating new offices alien to the constitution.

Article 78(1) of the 1992 constitution states, “Ministers of State shall be appointed by the President with the prior approval of Parliament….”.

This clearly indicates that the appointment process can only occur after approval of Parliament and therefore, Minister-designates are at most nominees whose presence in government institutions should amount to nothing more than a visit of an ordinary citizen and that without Ministerial privilege or authority whatsoever.

It is therefore illegal for any person to hold himself out as a Representative of the President to a Ministry exercising any form of executive authority of superintending, overseeing, directing, or controlling state institutions in the name of the President.

It is for this reason that where a substantive appointment has not been made to a specific ministry, a Minister appointed to another ministry and clothed with the constitutional instrument of office is directed by the President to act as ‘caretaker’ Minister for the ministry.

“President’s Representative to the Ministry of Health clothed with the authority and power of the President to represent him in the Ministry of Health is Hon Ursula Owusu Ekuful the Minister for Communications and Digitalization who is currently acting as the caretaker-Minister for the Ministry of Health and not Dr. Okoe Boye”.

The Minister-designate who is only a nominee of the President has no authority whatsoever to instruct or direct, implement or propose policy changes for agencies within a sector ministry. Therefore, under what power or authority does he/she summon CEOs and other heads of institutions and functions, who may be busy with their official schedules, to grant him audience or presentations on their management of state institutions?

The Minority in Parliament would therefore like to advise the Chief of Staff to revoke all illegal appointments appointing Minister-designates as Representatives of the President, persons so appointed to stop holding themselves out as Representatives of the President to designated Ministries and all members of the public with special emphasis on public sector workers should not extend any privilege reserved for Ministers to such persons, the Minority stated.

Ghanamps.com

Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mavis Hawa Koomson has told the Government Assurance Committee that fifty (50) of the premix fuel automated dispensing projects have been completed whiles the rest are at various points of completion when she appeared before the Committee on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

According to her the project is expected to cure the diversion of premix fuels. She also used the opportunity to apologise to the Committee for her inability to honor their invitation adding that it was not deliberate.

Her remarks came up as a result of the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije wanting to know from the Minister the current state of the premix fuel dispensers.

Meanwhile, the ranking member on the Committee, Oti Bless drew the attention of the Minister to take note that whatever will be said at the Committee level, they as a committee would move for a field verification.
The Minister responded by saying she is sure of what she is saying and would not come before the Committee to say anything that cannot be verified.

As to the locations of the fifty premix dispensers, she said though it was not part of the question sent to her to verify the places, on top of her head, she can say Elmina has three, whiles Salt Pond has one and there is another one at KEEA, she told the Committee.

“Again, in Accra we have Nuguah, Chorkor, and in the Volta Region – Adidome, Kpando, South and North Dayi among others”.

As to whether with the introduction of the premix fuel dispensers there has been improvement to curb stealing of the product, the Minister responded in the affirmative, saying fishermen get the premix fuel as measures have been put in place including one needs a card to draw the fuel.

“Mr. chairman thirty thousand litters which is supplied does not finish a day; it takes a week before it gets finished and we have used digitalisation to minimize theft”, she added.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com

Hon Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh is currently the first Rapporteur of the Industry and Private sector Committee of the 6th ECOWAS Legislature.

He is one of eight-member delegation representing Ghana at the community parliament in the 6th legislature.

Hon Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh is not new to the community parliament having represented the country since the 4th parliament and even served as the leader of the Ghanaian delegation in the 4th Parliament at the time he was the Majority Chief whip in the 7th Parliament of Ghana.

In the immediate past 5th ECOWAS Parliament, he was the chairman on the Trade, Customs and Free Movement Committee.

His experience in the Community Parliament and vast knowledge on various issues affecting the bloc would come handy as the new leadership seeks to work to address many of the challenges confronting the sub-region.

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com

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

A head of December 7,2024, general elections, Member of Parliament for Akim Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah has given indications that he would work hard to increase the percentage of votes for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

According to him in his first term he had seventy-nine (79) percent of the votes but in election 2024 he would work harder to get about ninety (90) percent of votes for himself and the flagbearer of the NPP Dr. Bawumia as a lot have been done in the constituency since he became the Member of Parliament.

“Anyone who goes into politics, as you go higher your votes drops, but I would be able to and have the confidence of increasing it to 90 percent. I know how well I am accepted by my people and I know how responsive I have been to them. When they are in need they come to me and those needs are met; those who did not believe in me now believe in me”.

On the erratic electricity situation in the Country as to what the situation is in his constituency, he told Ghanamps.com in an interview that, there are challenges but in his constituency the electricity is not erratic, it’s a bit scheduled.

And they are getting information on what is happening when it comes to electricity from the authorities, “We are hopeful that this is not going to be a long lasting situation; it would be resolved.”

Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/Ghanamps.com