Majority Caucus Calls For Urgent Recall Of Parliament Over National Concerns

The Majority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has formally requested the urgent reconvening of the House, citing the need to address pressing national matters following the abrupt adjournment of Parliament on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

Background to the Situation

The unexpected adjournment followed a Supreme Court ruling instructing Parliament to acknowledge four Members of Parliament affected by an ongoing legal case, which is yet to be resolved. This case, initiated by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has generated significant attention. In response to the ruling, Speaker Alban Bagbin indefinitely adjourned the parliamentary session, a move that has sparked considerable controversy within the political landscape.

The Majority Caucus’ Request

In a statement signed by all 138 Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Majority Caucus invoked Article 112(3) of the Constitution and Order 53 of Parliament’s Standing Orders to formally request a recall. These provisions allow at least 15% of MPs to petition for the House to reconvene.

Critical Matters at Stake

The Majority Caucus has outlined several key issues requiring immediate parliamentary attention, including:

• Tax exemptions for participants in the One District, One Factory (1D1F) program
• Allocation of funds from the Ghana Financial Stability Fund, a $250 million facility from the International Development Association (IDA)
• Various bills pending consideration, including:
  • Environmental Protection Agency Bill, 2024
  • Social Protection Bill, 2023
  • Customs (Amendment) Bill, 2024
  • Budget Bill, 2023
  • Ghana Boundary Commission Bill, 2023
  • Intestate Succession Bill, 2022

Justification for the Request

The Caucus emphasized that their request is driven by national interest, expressing concern that the indefinite adjournment has left critical legislative and governmental matters unresolved. They further argued that urgent issues—such as tax exemptions for key industries and the approval of bills crucial to economic and social stability—are now at risk of delay.

The Caucus’ statement reiterated their commitment to addressing these issues in a timely manner and urged Speaker Bagbin to act within the constitutionally mandated seven-day period to summon Parliament.

Call for Parliamentary Action

The Majority Caucus has expressed their readiness to provide further clarification on their request if needed, reaffirming their belief that reconvening Parliament is essential to advancing the nation’s interests.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com