The Minority in Parliament has expressed contentment following the government’s decision to suspend the introduction of the contentious Import Restrictions Bill.
In a press release issued on Friday, December 8, and endorsed by their leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority applauded the government for yielding to common sense.
Dr. Ato Forson emphasized that the Minority’s stance is not against the policy itself but concerns the potentially unchecked discretionary power it could grant to the Trade Minister. He highlighted the potential exacerbation of the already high cost of living in the country.
The lawmaker for Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam also commended all well-intentioned Ghanaians for supporting their opposition to the bill.
“We are happy that the government has jettisoned these regulations after stiff resistance and opposition in Parliament by the Minority Caucus. We wish to assure the Ghanaian people and the business community that the Minority will always be on their side and put their interest first. Ghana First!”
On Thursday, December 7, the Ministry of Trades and Industry suspended the presentation of the Legislative Instrument (L.I.). The Minister of Information, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, explained that this decision was made to facilitate additional consultations on the matter.
“First, we think that the economic objectives will work well for our growth and jobs and our development agenda. Therefore, it is important to get all stakeholders aligned as we go along this process. The idea is to suspend the laying, engage further, and get some more understanding and participation before we go in.”
“You know it is an L.I., you (are) going to factor in all of these views. Then, when you lay it, it can mature after the necessary 21 days because it is not a bill that would be amended on the floor. So, this would allow us to complete all of these engagements before any such laying takes place,” he told the media.
Following the government’s decision to suspend the bill, the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has commended this choice. Dr. Joseph Obeng, the President of GUTA, expressed satisfaction with the government’s decision, emphasizing the importance of additional consultations.
Dr. Obeng assured businesses that GUTA is ready to provide crucial insights to contribute to the development of a more comprehensive bill.