Parliament adjourned sine die for Christmas and New Year after passing 2024 Appropriation Bill
Parliament wrapped up its Third Meeting of the Eighth Parliament with an all-night sitting, concluding on December 23, as opposed to the initial plan to adjourn on December 22 for the Christmas break.
The session concluded with the passage of the Appropriation Bill for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024.
In his closing remarks, delivered by First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu, Speaker Alban Bagbin reminded MPs of their role as ambassadors of Parliamentary democracy.
He urged them to engage in local Parliamentary diplomacy to strengthen the bond between Parliament and citizens. Bagbin advised MPs to prioritize safety during the holidays and reflect on the significance of Christmas.
Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu expressed gratitude to MPs for their dedication to parliamentary business during the Third Session.
He acknowledged differences but emphasized the democratic value of agreeing to disagree.
The Majority Leader commended the Speaker and deputies for maintaining decorum and urged MPs to rest during the recess.
Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah commended MPs for their dedication, especially Minority Members. He expressed pride in their commitment to the people of Ghana.
“Mr Speaker, your commitment and dedication to your constitutional mandate in steering the affairs of the House is not lost on me,” the Majority Leader said.
“I have sometimes disagreed with you on matters of policy and sometimes even the interpretation of the Standing Orders and Constitution. But that is the hallmark of democracy: agreeing to disagree.”
“Mr Speaker, I cannot express my appreciation enough to you and your able deputies for your management of the House, even when the House had to sit during weekends.”
The Minority thanked the Speaker for guiding the House successfully. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year, Buah urged caution on the roads.