TIG Post

Tag: Minority

  • It’s about time you accept your defeat and allow the govt to do its job – Ato Forson to Minority

    It’s about time you accept your defeat and allow the govt to do its job – Ato Forson to Minority

    Majority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has urged the Minority to accept their defeat in the 2024 general election and work together with the new government.

    At a press conference in Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, he stressed the need for unity and encouraged everyone to focus on the country’s development.

    “We urge them to come to terms with their resounding defeat and allow the two-week-old government to steer the affairs of the state in line with the mandate of the good people of Ghana,” Dr. Forson stated.

    Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized that the people had made their choice in the election, and it was important to respect their decision for the country to move forward.

    He urged the Minority to avoid unnecessary conflicts and instead work with the government to solve important national problems. He warned that political disagreements at this early stage could slow down the country’s progress.

    Dr. Forson praised Ghanaians for ensuring a peaceful election and encouraged political leaders to put the country’s needs ahead of their party interests.

    He also assured that the government is committed to keeping its campaign promises and working hard to achieve its goals.

  • Minority hitting two-week-old Mahama govt with unwarranted attacks – Majority Leader

    Minority hitting two-week-old Mahama govt with unwarranted attacks – Majority Leader

    Majority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has criticized the Minority for subjecting President John Dramani Mahama’s newly sworn-in government to undue criticism just two weeks into its tenure.

    Speaking at a press conference in Parliament on Tuesday, January 21, Dr. Forson called on the opposition to exercise restraint and adopt a more constructive approach. He stressed the need for the government to have the space to address the nation’s challenges without unnecessary distractions.

    “The Mahama administration is barely two weeks old, yet it has already been inundated with unwarranted attacks from the Minority. I appeal to our colleagues on the other side to grant the government the necessary breathing space to steer the affairs of this country. Let us work together to build a better Ghana,” Dr. Forson urged.

    The Majority Leader highlighted the government’s focus on tackling pressing economic and social issues, emphasizing that a clear roadmap is already in place to guide the recovery process. He warned the opposition against actions that could hinder progress or destabilize governance.

    “The government has laid out a comprehensive roadmap to address the economic and social issues confronting our nation. Let us allow it to implement its policies without undue interference,” he added.

    While acknowledging the importance of dissent in a democratic system, Dr. Forson cautioned the Minority to avoid premature criticisms that could undermine national development. He encouraged them to channel their energy into constructive engagement with the government.

    Dr. Forson concluded by expressing optimism about the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises, urging all Ghanaians to rally behind President Mahama’s government in its mission to fulfil the aspirations of the people.

  • Don’t expect us to cooperate in Parliament if you don’t end post-electoral violence – Minority to Mahama

    Don’t expect us to cooperate in Parliament if you don’t end post-electoral violence – Minority to Mahama

    The Minority in Parliament has issued a warning to withdraw its cooperation unless President John Dramani Mahama takes decisive steps to address the escalating post-election unrest.

    According to the caucus, individuals believed to be linked to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have been involved in violent incidents and vandalism, allegedly to delay the Electoral Commission’s announcement of the Ablekuma North Parliamentary results in favor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Speaking to the press, Second Deputy Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib urged the President and the Election Security Taskforce to intervene swiftly to restore order and protect the integrity of the electoral process.

    “To President Mahama, we call on you to take immediate steps to call your party’s thugs to order. You cannot pretend to be unaware of all the lawlessness and violence in this country. We also call on the Ghana Police Service, the IGP and the Election Security Taskforce to rise to the occasion and enforce law and order without hesitation.

    “The EC officials and all the stakeholders in this electoral process must be protected. They are Ghanaians just like us. We hereby serve notice that should the president, who is the Commander-in-Chief, fail to take steps to protect ordinary citizens, we, the Minority Caucus, shall protest through lawful means and withdraw our cooperation in Parliament.”

  • Don’t honour any invitation by Mahama’s ORAL – Minority to former govt officials

    Don’t honour any invitation by Mahama’s ORAL – Minority to former govt officials

    The Minority in Parliament has urged former government officials to reject any invitations from the “Operation Recover All Loot” (ORAL) team, describing its operations as unconstitutional and redundant.

    At a press briefing on Wednesday, January 15, Suame MP John Darko insisted that the team’s activities undermine Ghana’s legal framework, as they duplicate the functions of established investigative bodies such as the Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), and the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    “Our advice to outgone government officials is clear: boycott any invitation from this so-called ORAL team. We refuse to participate in or recognise its activities because constitutionally established institutions already exist to investigate any alleged misdeeds,” Mr. Darko stated.

    He criticized the Attorney General nominee, Dr. Dominic Ayine, for endorsing ORAL, arguing that such support disrespects the authority of the existing constitutionally mandated agencies.

    The Minority further accused ORAL of excessive force, alleging that the team disrupts the lives of innocent citizens.

    “They are going about disturbing people, entering homes, seizing vehicles, and confiscating lands from individuals who have lawfully acquired them. This is nothing short of harassment, and it must stop,” Mr. Darko added.

    However, Attorney General and Justice Minister-designate Dr. Dominic Ayine has defended ORAL’s legitimacy. During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 13, he described the initiative as essential for holding people accountable and recovering state assets acquired unlawfully.

    Dr. Ayine explained that while ORAL is not a conventional legal entity, its mandate aligns with the principles outlined in the preamble of the 1992 Constitution, which emphasizes accountability.

    “If you look at the preamble to our Constitution, it is very clear about the fundamental values underpinning it. The value of accountability is one of the principles articulated in the preamble,” he noted.

    Established on December 18, 2024, by President John Dramani Mahama, ORAL is chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and consists of five members tasked with recovering state properties unlawfully acquired, particularly during previous administrations.

  • Minority accuses Bernard Ahiafor of partisanship in vetting of Mahama’s appointees

    Minority accuses Bernard Ahiafor of partisanship in vetting of Mahama’s appointees

    The Minority in Parliament has accused Bernard Ahiafor, Chairman of the Appointments Committee, of displaying partisanship during the vetting of ministerial nominees appointed by President John Mahama. They claim his conduct undermined the fairness and integrity of the process.

    At a press conference on Wednesday, Dr. Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North, criticized Ahiafor for what he described as a biased approach that hindered proper scrutiny of the nominees.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee was the first real obstacle to a diligent vetting of the ministerial nominees,” Dr. Boako asserted.

    He accused Ahiafor of shielding nominees from rigorous questioning, alleging that the Chairman’s behavior compromised the committee’s responsibility to hold nominees accountable.

    “He denied the Ghanaian people and the minority members of the committee the opportunity to conduct a thorough vetting of the nominees. He was protective of the nominees and extremely partisan,” Dr. Boako added.

    Highlighting specific instances, Dr. Boako mentioned the Chairman’s aggressive approach, including allegedly shouting at committee members to stifle questioning.

    “Members of the committee were shouted at by the Chairman. You all witnessed how the Member for Atiwa East, Abena Osei-Asare, was shouted at in an attempt to protect the nominees. The Chairman denied legitimate members of the committee the opportunity to ask relevant questions and railroaded the nominees through the process,” he remarked.

    The Minority defended their protest against the Chairman’s conduct, emphasizing their commitment to upholding parliamentary oversight despite Ahiafor’s behavior.

    “It must be noted that the altercation between our side of the committee and the Chairman was a direct protest against his conduct. Under the façade of a lack of capacity, he disregarded the fact that those he bullied were members of Parliament, and that the committee is a sub-body of the House,” Dr. Boako stated.

    Calling for a fairer process, Dr. Boako urged greater transparency and impartiality in future vetting exercises, stressing the importance of accountability in democratic governance.

  • Ato Forson failed to provide concrete solutions to Ghana’s economic problems – Minority

    Ato Forson failed to provide concrete solutions to Ghana’s economic problems – Minority

    Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Finance Minister-designate, has come under fire from the Minority over his responses during his recent vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee.

    The criticism, led by Dr. Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North, centered on Dr. Forson’s handling of critical economic issues.

    At a press conference on Wednesday, January 15, Dr. Boako accused Dr. Forson of failing to deliver clear and coherent strategies to address Ghana’s pressing economic challenges. He described the nominee’s responses as vague and disappointing.

    “Hon. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, who appeared as the Finance Minister-designate, was evasive, inconsistent, and lacked clarity of thought,” Dr. Boako stated.

    Dr. Boako argued that Dr. Forson’s experience as a former Deputy Minister of Finance and a ranking member of the Finance Committee should have prepared him better for the vetting process. He criticized Forson’s inability to offer straightforward solutions.

    “Having served as a Deputy Minister of Finance and a ranking member of the Finance Committee, one would have expected his answers to be forthright and to exude concrete solutions,” he added.

    The Minority specifically took issue with Dr. Forson’s response regarding the government’s promise to cover the first-year tuition fees for tertiary students. Dr. Boako expressed frustration with Forson’s failure to give a definitive response.

    “How can a Finance Minister-designate look into the faces of parents and young Ghanaian students and say that because he is not yet the Minister, he cannot answer whether the pledge by President Mahama to pay for their fees would be honoured?” he questioned.

    Dr. Boako asserted that the nominee’s vague response undermined public trust, particularly for students and parents who had relied on the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) campaign promises. He further accused the NDC of misleading the public with unattainable assurances.

    During his vetting, chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, Dr. Forson had expressed confidence in Ghana’s revenue potential, stressing that enhanced compliance rather than increased taxation could boost revenue collection.

    “We don’t necessarily have to increase taxes before you rake in revenue. What we need to do is improve compliance. I will work with the GRA and the tax policy unit to ensure we increase compliance and raise the revenue as much as we can,” he stated.

    Outlining his goals, Dr. Forson emphasized his commitment to improving Ghana’s tax-to-GDP ratio. “In the medium term, it is my vision, when approved, to increase the tax revenue from 13.8 percent of GDP to about 16 to 18 percent,” he noted.

  • Stop feeding media vital information before Parliament – Minority Leader

    Stop feeding media vital information before Parliament – Minority Leader

    Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has criticized the government for releasing vital information to the media before formally informing Parliament, urging the executive to prioritize the legislature in official communications.

    Afenyo-Markin’s concerns follow the recent ministerial nominations by President John Dramani Mahama, who has appointed nominees for the positions of Minister of Finance Designate, Minister of Energy Designate, and Attorney General and Minister of Justice Designate

    Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, January 9, 2025, Afenyo-Markin expressed disappointment over the trend where Parliament is sidelined while the media gains first access to major government announcements.

    He stressed the critical role of Parliament in governance, particularly in the approval of ministerial nominees, emphasizing that it should not be relegated to a secondary position.

    “In the 8th Parliament under President Akufo-Addo, Rt. Hon. Speaker made a profound observation that matters and communications to the house must first be known to the house before it gets into the media. This house should not be a secondary recipient of that which is its Bonafide,” he asserted.

    Afenyo-Markin further criticized the executive’s handling of official communications, calling for a halt to the practice where statements are issued publicly without Parliament’s prior knowledge.

    “I do not appreciate the fact that a statement will be issued when Parliament has not already received the communication. Parliament should be the first to receive the communication before it gets out into the media and that was the position taken by the Speaker,” he reiterated.

    He specifically called on the executive to address the issue, particularly pointing to acting government spokesperson Felix Ofosu Kwakye, who he described as a respected colleague.

    “I would want to draw the attention of the executive to this matter, especially when the acting spokesperson of the executive is one of our own, my own respected colleague Felix Ofosu Kwakye,” he added.

  • Minority accuses NDC supporters of vandalizing state properties

    Minority accuses NDC supporters of vandalizing state properties

    The Minority in Parliament has accused supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of vandalizing state properties and forcefully evicting public officials, calling on President John Mahama to take swift action against the alleged misconduct.

    Addressing journalists in Parliament, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei condemned the reported actions, describing them as alarming and unacceptable. She urged President Mahama to intervene promptly to restore order and protect the integrity of state institutions.

    “These attacks suggest a troubling agenda aimed at reshaping the country’s institutions through illegitimate means,” Appiagyei stated.

    She further linked the violence to the President’s leadership, emphasizing, “The violence and unlawful actions we are witnessing are deeply connected to the President’s own actions or inaction.”

    Appiagyei specifically criticized the establishment of the “Operation Recover All Looms” (ORAL) committee, which she claimed was formed even before Mahama’s official swearing-in. According to her, the committee has created a climate of hostility and lawlessness across the nation.

    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority has demanded an immediate end to these acts of violence and intimidation. They warned that failure to address the matter could undermine the country’s governance and threaten the security of its institutions.

  • Being a minority hurts but it’s not the end of the journey – Afenyo-Markin

    Being a minority hurts but it’s not the end of the journey – Afenyo-Markin

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu and Majority Leader, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, has broken silence following the just ended general election.

    The MP, also a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), expressed disappointment over his party’s significant loss of seats in Parliament.

    While acknowledging the hurt, he emphasized that the NPP’s substantial defeat does not define the party and is not an unprecedented occurrence.

    “In 2016, we had a resounding victory, and today, we find ourselves on the other side of the equation. It’s a reminder that elections are a part of the process, not the conclusion. The political landscape is ever-changing, and this loss does not define us.

    “The result stings, and I know it hurts. But we must remember that this is not the end of the journey. As a party, we will regroup, reassess, and strategise to win the hearts of Ghanaians once again,” he said while addressing the media after winning is reelection bid.
    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) emerged victorious in the 2024 presidential election, capturing 56.55% of the vote, the largest share since 1996. The party also dominated the parliamentary race and is on track to secure at least 180 seats in the House.

    Afenyo-Markin noted that the election outcome reflects the desires of Ghanaians and deserves to be honored.

    “If the electorate has decided to place their trust in the NDC this time around, we must honour that decision. The people have spoken, and it is their choice we must respect, even if it differs from ours,” he added.

  • Heavy security at Parliament ahead of sitting amidst constitutional impasse

    Heavy security at Parliament ahead of sitting amidst constitutional impasse

    Parliament has ramped up security measures for all sessions starting Tuesday, October 22, in response to the ongoing debate surrounding the constitutional status of four parliamentary seats.

    This decision comes after recent political and legal developments, where Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson challenged the validity of these seats under Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution.

    On October 17, Speaker Alban Bagbin declared the seats vacant, but the Supreme Court intervened the following day, temporarily suspending the ruling and allowing the MPs to continue their duties until a final verdict is reached.

    To safeguard the Speaker, MPs, and staff during these sensitive times, Parliament announced enhanced security measures in a press release signed by Frederick Bawa (retired), the Deputy Marshall of Parliament.

    These steps include strict screening of all MPs, staff, and journalists before they enter the Chamber. Bodyguards will also be prohibited from entering the Chamber during the sessions.

    In addition, parking restrictions will be enforced around the Grand Arena, with MPs required to use designated drop-off zones at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The Ghana Police Service will manage these arrangements and direct MPs to appropriate areas.

    MPs must wear their identification tags for quick verification, and entry to the Chamber will be allowed from 8:00 a.m. Public access to the gallery has been temporarily suspended to prevent public attendance at parliamentary sessions, further reducing the chances of disruption during these potentially heated discussions.

    These measures are intended to ensure order and mitigate any possible tensions during this critical period.

    “Respectfully counting on the cooperation of all,” the statement read, urging all MPs and staff to comply with the new guidelines to ensure the smooth and secure continuation of parliamentary business.

    These enhanced security measures come at a critical time as the nation awaits further developments on the constitutional challenges in Parliament.

    With heightened public interest in the case, it is expected that these restrictions will help maintain calm and order within the legislative body.

  • Presidency pressuring Ghana Gas to sign dubious $800m contract – Minority alleges

    Presidency pressuring Ghana Gas to sign dubious $800m contract – Minority alleges

    The Minority in Parliament has accused the Presidency of exerting pressure on the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) to sign a controversial $800 million contract with Phoenix Park Gas Processors Consortium.

    According to the Minority, this alleged deal, pushed through under suspicious circumstances without parliamentary approval, is at the root of the ongoing power outages and load shedding across the country.

    Addressing journalists on the issue, the Ranking Member on the Energy Committee of Parliament, John Jinapor, revealed that the country recorded a power deficit of over 500 megawatts on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. The shortfall had a negative impact on customers across the country.

    “Because of such dubious contracts, as we speak, there is load shedding ongoing. GRIDCo has been cautioned not to inform customers. On [September 24], there was a deficit of more than 500 megawatts. On [September 25], they are going to shed a load and customers in Ghana will be affected,” he stated.

    The recent wave of power outages has been attributed to challenges at the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) gas processing plant. According to the Minority, the ongoing load shedding is a result of dubious contracts signed by the government through the Ghana Gas Company.

    In addition to the contracts, Jinapor highlighted financial challenges within the energy sector, noting that Tullow Ghana, a key supplier of gas to Ghana Gas, has not been paid for gas supplied over the past nine months. This debt has now led Tullow to consider halting its gas supply to the country.

    “Tullow Ghana has not been paid even $1 for the past nine months for gas supplied to Ghana Gas and Tullow is threatening to curtail supply of gas,” he said.

    Jinapor further revealed that Independent Power Producers (IPPs) have also sent a letter to the Minister of Finance, warning of their intent to stop the supply of power due to outstanding debts of around $1.2 billion.

    The Minority expressed grave concern about the state of the energy sector, describing it as being on the verge of collapse. The caucus is calling for urgent interventions to address the financial and operational challenges plaguing the sector, stressing that continued inaction could lead to prolonged power outages.

    “The IPPs have just dispatched a letter to the Minister of Finance intending to halt the supply of power for debt and liabilities hovering around $1.2 billion. Sadly, the energy sector is collapsing,” Jinapor warned.

    The Minority’s claims come at a time when many Ghanaians are expressing frustration over the resurgence of load shedding and unreliable power supply. The government is yet to respond to these allegations.

  • GRIDCo silent on load shedding amid energy sector crises – Minority alleges

    GRIDCo silent on load shedding amid energy sector crises – Minority alleges

    The Minority in Parliament has expressed worries about the return of load shedding, commonly referred to as ‘dumsor,’ attributing it to questionable contracts signed by the government via the Ghana Gas Company.

    The caucus claims that the Ghana Gas Company is under pressure from the Presidency to finalize an $800 million agreement with the Phoenix Park Gas Processors Consortium under suspicious conditions, all without parliamentary consent.

    They reported a power shortfall of over 500 megawatts on Tuesday, September 24, which has adversely affected customers.

    John Jinapor, the Ranking Member on the Energy Committee of Parliament, voiced these concerns during a discussion with reporters.

    “Because of such dubious contracts, as we speak, there is load shedding ongoing. GRIDCo has been cautioned not to inform customers. On [September 24], there was a deficit of more than 500 megawatts. On [September 25], they are going to shed a load and customers in Ghana will be affected.

    “Tullow Ghana has not been paid even $1 for the past nine months for gas supplied to Ghana Gas and Tullow is threatening to curtail supply of gas.

    “The IPPs have just dispatched a letter to the Minister of Finance intending to halt the supply of power for debt and liabilities hovering around $1.2 billion. Sadly, the energy sector is collapsing.”

  • NPP wants NDC to inherit $2bn energy sector debt – Minority

    NPP wants NDC to inherit $2bn energy sector debt – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament is calling for a thorough audit of Ghana’s energy sector to determine the full extent of its rising debt.

    According to the caucus, the sector’s debt has surpassed $2 billion, a figure they attribute to what they describe as the government’s mismanagement of funds under the Energy Sector Levy Act (ESLA).

    Furthermore, the group highlights the Ministry of Finance’s failure to settle GH¢1.8 billion in electricity bills owed by various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) since August 2023. This outstanding debt, they argue, has placed immense strain on the power sector.

    Addressing the media, John Jinapor, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Energy Committee, accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s government of deliberately mismanaging the energy sector, leaving it in a precarious state for a potential future administration under John Dramani Mahama.

    “PURC based on its statement, has indicated that ECG is not abiding with the Cash Waterfall Mechanism and it is the mechanism that allows companies and entities throughout the energy sector value chain to get some revenue or payment, that has been jettisoned. As if that is not enough, the Ministry of Finance, since August 2023 has not paid up even a Cedi for power consumed by ministries, departments and agencies.

    “From our rough estimates, that debt alone amounts to GH¢1.8 billion. Clearly, they are just trying to manage the system and hand over a dilapidated, ageing equipment, collapsed energy sector to President Mahama When he assumes office.”

    “A lot of work awaits President Mahama when he assumes office. The energy sector debt alone, based on our rough estimate, is around $2 billion as we speak. They are misapplying the energy sector levy revenues and they are also misapplying the energy sector recovery levies,” John Jinapor added.

  • Report on unapproved leased lands in Northern Region – Minority to Lands Minister

    Report on unapproved leased lands in Northern Region – Minority to Lands Minister

    Minority in Parliament has urged the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to promptly release the list of lands in the Northern Region that have been leased without proper authorization.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs argue that disclosing this information is essential for reclaiming the lands and identifying those behind the unauthorized leases.

    At a press conference on Tuesday, September 3, Alhassan Suhuyini, the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Lands and Natural Resources Committee, criticized the government for its tendency to withhold information from the public.

    He stressed the need for transparency in handling such issues, especially when it concerns public lands.

    “Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the press, thanks to our collective activism against dubious allocations of state lands to private individuals, the government has since forced a retreat and announced that the Northern Regional Lands Commission has been directed to reverse a number of leases over public lands granted to private developers without the prior approval of the President of the Republic.”

    “Ladies and gentlemen, it will be most irresponsible on the part of the Minister and President if the officials involved in the criminal allocation of the said leases of government land, without the prior approval of neither the president nor minister, are not sanctioned.”

    Mr. Suhuyini urged the government to publicly disclose the list of government lands that have been leased without proper authorization, so that Ghanaians can evaluate the situation independently.

    He contended that public oversight is crucial for ensuring accountability and curbing further unauthorized land transactions.

    Alongside the release of the list, the NDC MPs have demanded that any staff members of the Lands Commission implicated in these illegal activities face penalties.

    Mr. Suhuyini emphasized the need for stringent disciplinary measures to discourage others from participating in similar misconduct.

    “We therefore demand the swift dismissal and criminal investigation of the officials involved in allocating the said leases without the approval of the President. We also request the Minister in the interest of transparency and good governance to publish the full report of the three-member committee the ministry set up to investigate the transfer of the public lands in the Northern Region,” he stated.

  • Stakeholders’ meeting on Lithium Mining Agreement boycotted by Minority

    Stakeholders’ meeting on Lithium Mining Agreement boycotted by Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has opted to boycott a stakeholders’ engagement concerning the Lithium Mining Agreement.

    This agreement, involving Barari DV, was presented by the Lands and Natural Resources Minister in July and was then sent to the Lands and Natural Resources Committee for review.

    Alhassan Suhuyini, the Ranking Member of the Committee, explained that their absence from the meeting was due to a simultaneous emergency Parliament session at the conference center.

    As a result, they will not recognize the meeting’s outcomes.

    “Regarding a call from Parliament to rectify two leases—a bauxite mining lease and the other a lithium mining lease—this meeting is being attended by only the majority members of the committee, and the reason is simple: the processes leading up to the organization of the meeting have been very flawed.

    “Today is a special meeting of Parliament. It is not just special because about 15% of Members of Parliament have called this sitting. It is also special because of the venue that has been chosen for today’s sitting. It is not our usual venue. At our usual venue, it is easy to have committee meetings taking place at the same time as business on the floor, so that when it becomes necessary, members can move from the committee meetings to the business on the floor.”

    Suhuyini criticized the process leading up to the meeting, pointing out that it was attended exclusively by majority members.

    He highlighted that the emergency sitting’s unusual venue and timing conflicted with the committee’s regular schedule.

    According to him, the committee meeting should have been rescheduled to accommodate the Parliament session.

    He added that the chairman of the committee decided to proceed with the meeting despite the scheduling conflict, leading the Minority to prioritize the emergency Parliament session over the committee meeting.

    “Together with our leadership, we have decided to attach seriousness to the emergency recall that has been done on us and to stay here and do business, and that is why you may realize later on that the committee meeting is made up of only members of the majority.”

  • Minority accuses govt of using military to scare voters amid grain export ban

    Minority accuses govt of using military to scare voters amid grain export ban

    The Minority in Parliament has criticized the government for allegedly using military forces to scare voters under the pretext of enforcing a newly imposed ban on grain exports, due to a severe drought affecting northern Ghana.

    Government imposed an immediate ban on grain exports to safeguard domestic food supplies on August 26, 2024,

    Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul confirmed that military forces have been stationed at the borders to implement this restriction.

    However, the Minority has raised concerns, alleging that the military presence might be a covert attempt to suppress voter turnout.

    At a press conference in Accra on August 30, 2024, James Agalga, Ranking Member of the Defence and Interior Committee, criticized the absence of a clear timeline for the military’s deployment.

    “If they have no ulterior motives, then they ought to have given us timelines,” Mr. Agalga argued.

    He continued that: “The fact that there are no timelines gives us reason to suspect that they only used the crisis, related to the drought up north and the potential for us to have some food security challenges, to deploy the military to intimidate voters.”

    Mr. Agalga also referenced the military’s role in the 2020 elections to support his argument.

    “Otherwise, there should be timelines. We further backed our assertions with what happened in the roundup of the 2020 elections…So our suspicions are justifiable,” he added.

  • Ban on grain exports not the solution – Minority to govt

    Ban on grain exports not the solution – Minority to govt

    The Minority Spokesperson on Agriculture and MP for Asunafo South, Eric Opoku, has criticized the government’s recent decision to ban grain exports.

    He argued that this measure will not achieve the desired outcomes.

    The ban, announced on Monday, August 26, aims to prevent a potential food crisis caused by reduced rainfall in northern Ghana.

    Despite this, Opoku believes the government should address the underlying issues driving the exportation of grains instead of enforcing such a ban.

    “But what are the motivating factors? Is it the price? If they go there and they will get a higher price, certainly, the farmer will be motivated by the high price to send their grains to that place.

    “But in this critical moment, now that we are in dire need of food, we have to stock enough food against a looming crisis.”

    In contrast, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, remains hopeful that famine will be avoided despite the severe drought affecting Northern Ghana.

    The region, enduring more than two months without rainfall, is facing significant concerns over food security and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. The prolonged dry spell has stunted crop growth, leaving farmers anxious about their harvest prospects.

    Nonetheless, during an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Face to Face on Channel One TV, Bryan Acheampong reassured that fears of a food shortage are unfounded, confidently stating that the country will not face such a crisis.

  • Minority slams Akufo-Addo for cutting sod for $338m project while GHS15bn owed to contractors

    Minority slams Akufo-Addo for cutting sod for $338m project while GHS15bn owed to contractors

    The Minority has questioned why President Akufo-Addo has initiated a $338 million project for the reconstruction of the Tema motorway when he still owes GH¢15 billion to contractors for completed and certified work.

    With only three months remaining in his term, the NDC believes that this move is an attempt to gain favor with voters for the New Patriotic Party ahead of the 2024 elections.

    “You cannot even fund the payment of salaries, statutory funds to District Assemblies, NHIA, GETFund, etc,” and, thus, “What is the point of cutting sod for a $338-million project 3 months before you are booted out of office?”  It is propaganda for votes,” the statement said, adding: “Ghanaians will not fall for this. NPP, not again.”

    The NDC has stated that while they are not opposed to the renovation project, they have a duty to ensure value for money and accountability from the New Patriotic Party.

    “Indeed, we support the principles behind the project and have demonstrated this in the past, but we will not shirk our responsibility to ensure value for money and accountability,” said the Minority’s spokesperson on infrastructure, Governs Agbodza.

    In May of this year, the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry expressed serious concerns about the plight of its members due to an outstanding debt of GH¢15 billion owed by the government, which has been accumulating since 2014.

    The Chamber reported that this financial strain has resulted in the deaths of some members, left others incapacitated, and led to legal actions by financiers over delayed loan repayments.

    The government announced that it had spent about GH¢49 billion to pay contractors.

    However, Emmanuel Cherry, CEO of the Construction Chamber, denied knowledge of receiving such funds in an interview with the Ghana News Agency on Monday, May 27.

    Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the significance of the project as Ghana’s first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in road infrastructure.

    “By uniting the expertise and resources of both the public and private sectors, and with the strategic backing of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), we are not merely constructing a road; we are building a future,” he declared.

    Note that the reconstruction of the Accra-Tema Motorway will be carried out in three distinct phases: from the Accra-Tema Motorway Roundabout to the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange, from the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange to the Apenkwa Interchange, and from the Apenkwa Interchange to the Neoplan Junction on the Accra-Kumasi Road.

    President Akufo-Addo used the sod-cutting event to reiterate his administration’s commitment to modernizing Ghana’s infrastructure to meet the demands of the 21st century.

    “Already, we have made significant strides with ongoing projects such as the dualization of the Santasi-Ahiakwanta Road and the Adenta-Dodowa Road,” he said, adding that other key road projects, including the dualization of the Kasoa-Winneba Road and the Takoradi-Agona Junction Road, are progressing steadily.

    He also revealed that contractors are being mobilized for the Atsutsuare-Volivo-Aveyime and Dafor-Adidome-Asikuma Roads, which will feature an interchange at Asikuma Junction. Funded by the Government of Ghana and the African Development Bank, these projects are designed to enhance travel efficiency and reduce vehicle operating costs once completed.

    Below is Agbodza’s full statement:

    ACCRA-TEMA MOTORWAY PROJECT-PARLIAMENT DID NOT APPROVE $660m

    1. The NDC is not against improving the Accra-Tema Motorway. Indeed, we support the principles behind the project and demonstrated same in the past. But will not shirk our responsibility to ensure value for money and accountability.

    2. ⁠Parliament ONLY approved $339m Multi-Year funding for the project. We did not approve $660m. No one has the right to commit the country to future spending on the project without approval from Parliament.

    3. ⁠The source of funding for the project is NOT SUSTAINABLE. The NPP is claiming the source of funds for the project is Mahama’s Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF). The NPP said the same thing about how they were going to fund the so-called Agenda 111, housing projects etc. We all know the status of Agenda 111, etc today . The NPP has collapsed the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF). Unlike the past when GIIF backed projects that are self-financing and sustainable, such as Kotoka Airport Terminal 3 etc, the NPP incompetently invested the funds in unproductive ventures like SKYTRIAIN, PULLMAN HOTEL etc.

    4. In any case, why is NPP not explaining why they cancelled the contract between the Road Ministry and Morta Engils and why they paid $2.5 million towards that unwholesome contract?

    5. The government currently OWES ROAD CONTRACTORS ABOUT GH¢15BILLION for works completed and certified and NOT PAID FOR.

    Currently, the government cannot even fund the payment of salaries, pay Statutory Funds to District Assemblies, NHIA, GETFund, etc. What is the point of cutting sod for $338 million project 3 months before you are booted out of office? IT IS PROPAGANDA FOR VOTES . Ghanaians will not fall for this . NPP, NOT AGAIN.

  • Parliament did not approve $660m for Tema Motorway project but $339m – Minority

    Parliament did not approve $660m for Tema Motorway project but $339m – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has clarified that the approved budget for the Accra-Tema Motorway expansion project is $339 million, not the $660 million previously mentioned.

    President Akufo-Addo launched the project on Monday, August 26, with plans to transform the motorway into a modern 10-lane highway.

    The Minority spokesperson for infrastructure, Governs Agbodza, expressed concerns about the project’s transparency, drawing parallels to other delayed government initiatives such as Agenda 111 and various housing projects.

    “Parliament ONLY approved $339m Multi-Year funding for the project. We did not approve $660m. No one has the right to commit the country to future spending on the project without approval from Parliament,” Governs Agbodza wrote in a statement on Tuesday, August 27.

    The expansion project seeks to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety, ensuring the motorway becomes fully accessible and more efficient.

    Spanning 27.7 kilometers, the project will be carried out in three phases: the first phase will rehabilitate the motorway, the second phase will upgrade the George Walker Bush Highway, and the third phase will enhance the Nsawam Road.

    Below is Agbodza’s full statement.

    ACCRA-TEMA MOTORWAY PROJECT-PARLIAMENT DID NOT APPROVE $660m

    1. The NDC is not against improving the Accra-Tema Motorway. Indeed, we support the principles behind the project and demonstrated same in the past. But will not shirk our responsibility to ensure value for money and accountability.
    2. ⁠Parliament ONLY approved $339m Multi-Year funding for the project. We did not approve $660m. No one has the right to commit the country to future spending on the project without approval from Parliament.
    3. ⁠The source of funding for the project is NOT SUSTAINABLE. The NPP is claiming the source of funds for the project is Mahama’s Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF). The NPP said the same thing about how they were going to fund the so-called Agenda 111, housing projects etc. We all know the status of Agenda 111, etc today . The NPP has collapsed the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF). Unlike the past when GIIF backed projects that are self-financing and sustainable, such as Kotoka Airport Terminal 3 etc, the NPP incompetently invested the funds in unproductive ventures like SKYTRIAIN, PULLMAN HOTEL etc.
    4. In any case, why is NPP not explaining why they cancelled the contract between the Road Ministry and Morta Engils and why they paid $2.5 million towards that unwholesome contract?
    5. The government currently OWES ROAD CONTRACTORS ABOUT GH¢15BILLION for works completed and certified and NOT PAID FOR.

    Currently, the government cannot even fund the payment of salaries, pay Statutory Funds to District Assemblies, NHIA, GETFund, etc. What is the point of cutting sod for $338 million project 3 months before you are booted out of office? IT IS PROPAGANDA FOR VOTES . Ghanaians will not fall for this . NPP, NOT AGAIN.

  • COCOBOD’s crop loan request rejected by international banks – Minority

    COCOBOD’s crop loan request rejected by international banks – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has expressed serious concerns regarding COCOBOD’s financial stability, following reports that international banks have declined to approve a loan requested by the organization for the 2024/2025 cocoa season.

    The opposition argued that the refusal to grant this loan is a troubling sign of diminishing confidence in COCOBOD’s management.

    They believe this situation underscores ongoing issues with financial mismanagement and poor decision-making that have plagued COCOBOD in recent years.

    Traditionally, COCOBOD has relied on offshore syndicated loans to fund the purchase of cocoa beans.

    The latest rejection by international banks suggests a significant erosion of trust in COCOBOD’s financial stewardship.

    In response, COCOBOD’s Chief Executive Officer, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has announced that for the first time in three decades, the organization will not be able to secure offshore syndicated loans for cocoa procurement.

    Instead, COCOBOD plans to use its own resources to finance the purchase of approximately 650,000 metric tonnes of cocoa for the upcoming season.

    The Minority has raised alarms that this development could severely impact the cocoa industry, a vital sector for Ghana’s economy.

    They caution that without adequate funding, COCOBOD may struggle to meet its purchasing targets, potentially harming cocoa farmers and the broader economic landscape.

    The Minority has called for urgent government intervention to address the underlying issues contributing to this loss of confidence.

    They advocate for a review of COCOBOD’s management practices and the implementation of corrective measures to restore the organization’s credibility with international financial institutions, ensuring the stability and strength of the cocoa sector.

    The statement highlights that, for the first time in 32 years, COCOBOD’s request for a $1.5 billion prepayment loan to purchase cocoa did not attract any interest from international banks.

    This failure is attributed to COCOBOD’s deteriorating financial health and the overall decline of the cocoa sector under the current administration.

    The statement also points to a dramatic drop in cocoa production from 969,000 metric tonnes in the 2016/2017 crop year, inherited from the previous administration, to just over 400,000 metric tonnes for the 2023/2024 season.

    This significant reduction in production, combined with mismanagement, has affected COCOBOD’s ability to fulfill its contractual obligations.

    “For the first time in 32 years, International Banks have rejected Ghana Cocoa Board’s (COCOBOD) request for a prepayment loan to finance the purchase of cocoa.”

    “In June 2024, COCOBOD issued a Request for Proposal of $1.5 billion loan to purchase up to 650,000 metric tonnes of cocoa for the 2024/2025 crop year. But this request did not attract any interest from the international banks due to the poor health of COCOBOD and the collapse of the cocoa sector under its present management.

    “From a production level of 969,000 metric tonnes inherited from the NDC in the 2016/2017 crop year, cocoa production has declined to just a little over 400,000 metric tonnes for the 2023/2024 cocoa season. The significant decline in cocoa production in the last eight years and the mismanagement of the cocoa sector have impacted COCOBOD’s ability to meet its contractual obligations,” an excerpt of the statement said.

    Read statement below:

    MinorityLeader.CocoaLoan.CrisisDownload
  • Minority, Police to finalise details on #OccupyBoG demo

    Minority, Police to finalise details on #OccupyBoG demo

    The Minority in Parliament is set to meet with the Ghana Police Service in preparation for a second #OccupyBoG demonstration, aimed at demanding the resignation of the Bank of Ghana’s Governor and his deputies.

    The planned protest, scheduled to take place in the coming weeks, has prompted the Minority to engage with law enforcement to ensure a peaceful and orderly event.

    In a formal petition submitted on Monday, August 12, Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized the importance of maintaining the same peaceful conduct as during the previous #OccupyBoG protest. The Minority is seeking the cooperation of the police to guarantee the safety of all participants.

    Dr. Forson highlighted that the protest is a direct response to what he described as the “gross mismanagement” of Ghana’s economy under the current leadership of the Bank of Ghana. He reiterated calls for accountability and transparency, insisting on the immediate resignation of the central bank’s officials, who he believes are undermining public confidence in the financial system.

    To avoid any disruptions to public order, the Minority has requested an early meeting with the police to discuss the modalities of the demonstration and agree on a suitable date.

    “In view of the foregoing, the Minority kindly requests a meeting with the Police at a venue and time of your choice, to consider the modalities for our demonstration against the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and his deputies,” the letter stated.

    Minority.Leader.Police.BOGDemoDownload
  • Recall of Parliament isn’t for an emergency situation – Minority

    Recall of Parliament isn’t for an emergency situation – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has expressed strong disapproval of the recent decision by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to unilaterally trigger a recall of Parliament, arguing that the action was unnecessary given the scheduled timeline for the House to reconvene.

    Minority Chief Whip Kwame Governs Agbodza criticized the recall, stating, “It was not done in good faith.”

    He emphasized that while the Minority will cooperate and attend the session, the Majority side will face the challenge of meeting the required quorum to commence parliamentary business.

    This situation arises after the House was adjourned indefinitely on July 30, 2024.

    Mr. Agbodza also highlighted the inconvenience posed to parliamentary candidates who are currently focused on nominations and pre-campaign activities. He questioned the need for the recall, given that it was not driven by an urgent matter.

    In response, Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh defended the decision, underscoring the importance of addressing critical government business before the election campaign period begins.

    Despite acknowledging the exhaustion of members, Annoh-Dompreh stressed, “I am not surprised by the reaction of the Minority that has been their position from day one so it is not surprising. There is a tall list of businesses to be prosecuted…suffix it to say, you know when we get back, we are heading towards election so this is a very good opportunity for us to dispense this critical government business. So this recall is important.”

    The recall has thus sparked a debate between the two sides, with the Minority questioning its necessity while the Majority insists on its importance for the effective management of government affairs.

  • Stop your Chief of Staff from pressuring ministers to pay your daughters – Minority tells Akufo-Addo

    Stop your Chief of Staff from pressuring ministers to pay your daughters – Minority tells Akufo-Addo

    The Minority in Parliament has accused the Chief of Staff, Frema Opare, of pressuring the heads of the Finance and Health Ministries to make payment to Service Auto Group Ghana Limited which has been linked to the daughters of President Akufo-Addo in the ambulance spare parts deal saga.

    Chairman of the Assurances Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who engaged the press on Tuesday, August 6, entreated the President to call his subordinate to order and avert any payment to the company.

    The North Tongu Member of Parliament said, “the Minority is also urging the President to instruct his Chief of Staff, Frema Opare, to cease pressuring the Ministers of Health and Finance to make unlawful payments to SGAGL”.

    He made this appeal after he called on President Akufo-Addo to halt the “scandalous, unconscionable, sweetheart, family-affair” ambulance spare parts deal.

    The role of the Office of the Chief of Staff in the ambulance spare parts deal came to light when the Ministry of Health responded to concerns raised by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, about a service contract with Service Auto Group Ghana Limited for the maintenance of ambulances.

    The Ministry clarified that this contract was originally signed by the now-defunct Ministry of Special Development Initiatives and that subsequent actions were taken under the guidance of the Office of the Chief of Staff.

    On September 10, 2020, the Ministry of Special Development Initiatives entered into a contract with Service Auto Group Ghana Limited to provide after-sales service and maintenance for 307 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 315 CDI ambulances. The contract included a provision for the supplier to offer a projected budget for necessary spare parts and lubricants to ensure smooth servicing and maintenance.

    Following the dissolution of the Ministry of Special Development Initiatives, the Special Initiatives Development Secretariat took over the contract’s execution. However, in March 2023, the Office of the Chief of Staff requested the Ministry of Health to explore ways to support the National Ambulance Service in maintaining the ambulances due to Parliament’s refusal to approve the budget estimates of the Special Initiatives Development Secretariat for the 2023 fiscal year.

    In response to this directive, the Ministry of Health approached the Ministry of Finance to establish letters of credit totaling $34,904,505.00 on behalf of Service Auto Group Ghana Limited for procuring spare parts for the 307 ambulances. The Ministry of Finance responded, indicating it could only fund up to $10 million of the requested amount and recommended that the Ministry of Health seek additional financing through the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

    Despite this, the NHIA stated in correspondence with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance that it could not fund the procurement of spare parts from the 10% allocation to the Ministry of Health, as this expense was not included in the allocation formula approved by Parliament.

    The Ministry of Health emphasized that Service Auto Group Ghana Limited had not been paid the widely reported $34.9 million. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring a sustainable maintenance regime for all fleets procured for the National Ambulance Service to provide reliable, efficient, and safe emergency medical services.

    Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa had raised concerns about potential corruption in the deal, alleging that the contract was hastily approved and that $10 million had already been paid to the company. He also questioned the legitimacy of Service Auto Group Ghana Limited, noting that the company was incorporated a year after the ambulances were commissioned in 2019 and raised concerns about the company’s capacity to service the ambulances.

    Furthermore, Ablakwa alleged connections between the company and President Akufo-Addo’s daughters, suggesting that one of the company’s directors is a close business associate of the President’s daughters. These allegations prompted Ablakwa to petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    In its statement, the Ministry of Health noted that all documentation covering the transaction is a matter of public record and accessible to the public. The Ministry expressed its readiness to support any efforts to bring further clarity to the issue in the public interest.

    PRESS RELEASE; ASCDownload
  • Preventing reclassification of Achimota Forest is our top priority – Minority

    Preventing reclassification of Achimota Forest is our top priority – Minority

    The MP for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, has vowed that the Minority caucus will take all necessary measures to prevent the reclassification of the Achimota Forest.

    As the Ranking Member of the Lands Committee, Mr Suhuyini expressed concerns that any development in the forest could jeopardize the country, particularly residents of Accra.

    In a recent interview on the Citi Breakfast Show with Caleb Kudah, he criticized the government’s decision, questioning how the reclassification would benefit Ghanaians.

    Mr Suhuyini noted that the NPP government has invested over GH¢400 million in afforestation initiatives, excluding the annual Green Ghana Day, making the move to reclassify the Achimota Forest for commercial and residential use perplexing.

    He highlighted the inconsistency of spending GH¢421 million on forest conservation while simultaneously declassifying an area that has been preserved for decades.

    The MP emphasized that the forest’s preservation is crucial for maintaining air quality in Accra, which is becoming increasingly polluted.

    Mr Suhuyini announced plans for his committee to visit the forest to verify whether parts are being allocated to the Owoo family, stressing the importance of protecting the Achimota Forest from further damage.

    “The government has spent some GH¢421 million on national afforestation programmes and that is aside from the Green Ghana Day and all of these are aimed at improving our forest cover, yet we have this same government declassifying the Achimota Forest

    “Turning 361 acres of land into the concrete jungle and yet we can not point to any forest the government has created since spending all the GH¢421 million on afforestation programmes and this forest that has been created way before we were born and we are fixated at destroying it.”

    Mr Suhuyini added that “everything that we can do to save the forest, we must do and my committee’s intention was to visit the forest on Thursday to ascertain for ourselves whether they were indeed demarcating portions to the Owoo family because we cannot allow ourselves to be poisoned because the Achimota Forest saves and filters our air due to how choked Accra has become.”

  • Minority demands cost of govt’s DRIP project in new RTI

    Minority demands cost of govt’s DRIP project in new RTI

    Minority Caucus in Parliament is requesting details about the costs associated with road construction equipment purchased under the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).

    Launched on July 31, the DRIP aims to tackle road maintenance issues by partnering with Metropolitans, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and supplying them with earth-moving machinery.

    In a statement issued by Mahama Ayariga, Ranking Member of the Committee on Information and Communication, the Minority is invoking section 18 of the Rights to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989).

    They are seeking information on the price of each piece of equipment bought for DRIP, the payment schedule, and the total amount paid for the equipment so far, among other details.

  • Minority files RTI to demand cost of District Road Improvement Programme, others

    Minority files RTI to demand cost of District Road Improvement Programme, others

    The Minority in Parliament has submitted a Right to Information (RTI) request to the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) seeking comprehensive details about the newly launched District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).

    The NDC Members of Parliament are specifically requesting information on the specifications and particulars of each piece of equipment allocated for DRIP.

    The request, signed by Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga, also seeks the payment schedule related to the equipment. Additionally, the MPs want to know the total payments made so far for the equipment and the overall cost of the District Road Improvement Programme.

    The letter stated, “Pursuant to section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), I write on the instructions of Honourable Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Caucus in Parliament, to request for the following information.”

    “The cost at which each unit of the equipment meant for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) launched on Wednesday 31st July, 2024 has been procured,” an excerpt of the letter said.

    On July 31, 2024, President Akufo-Addo officially launched the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) at Independence Square.

    This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, aims to address the critical issue of deteriorating road conditions across the country’s 275 constituencies, which the National Security Ministry has highlighted as a significant national security concern.

    DRIP represents a pivotal move towards improving road conditions nationwide, with goals to make unpaved roads motorable and reduce bureaucratic delays in road maintenance.

    The implementation of the program is expected to significantly impact local communities by improving accessibility and addressing the national security challenges posed by poor road conditions

    MINORITY.DRIPPROGRAMME.RTI REQUEST 2Download
  • Majority secretly invited Supreme Court nominees for vetting – Minority

    Majority secretly invited Supreme Court nominees for vetting – Minority

    A heated dispute erupted in Parliament during a meeting between the Minority and Majority members of the Appointments Committee over the vetting process for new Supreme Court nominees.

    The controversy centers around claims by Minority Members of Parliament (from the National Democratic Congress) that Majority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin secretly scheduled a vetting session at a time not agreed upon by the Committee.

    This move sparked outrage among the Minority MPs, who voiced their frustrations during a meeting on July 30, 2024.

    In audio recordings obtained by GhanaWeb’s Parliamentary Correspondent, Nimatu Yakubu Atouyese, the Minority MPs expressed their displeasure with Afenyo-Markin’s actions.

    Mahama Ayariga criticized the rushed approach, questioning why the vetting was being expedited despite prior discussions about taking a more measured approach.

    “Leader, we were here yesterday, we had a meeting at which we discussed this matter and said we do not want to embarrass these judges. It’s a new Appointments Committee. Notice was served to the nominees to come without us having had a meeting – no meeting. Notice was served to the public to produce memos with no meeting.

    “Then yesterday, we met and said what is the rush? We have a lot of time so let’s take our time and not embarrass these judges. Let’s do a decent job… only to see in a midnight WhatsApp message exchanges that we are being summoned as a committee to come and vet these people…,” he said.

    “I can confirm that when I came in here this morning, only GTV was here, so we asked, what about the other parliamentary press corps. We didn’t get any proper answer so, the Minority Leader directed that let the parliamentary press corps be here, so that is the fact…

    “Just to add, chairman, you have called an illegal meeting; a meeting to vet members of the apex court of our land – the Supreme Court, called at midnight, can only be an illegal meeting, or ill-motivated meeting. What will be the reason why a party in government will like to vet very respected people in this country where if all of us disagree, they are the ones who will step in for us; their vetting will be such a controversy.

    “I put on the platform, ‘Don’t actually smear the Supreme Court Justices by getting them involved in this shabby arrangement because there’s no rush. In fact, there’s no vacancy at the Supreme Court which is detrimental to the delivery of justice as we speak… and then we are told that the Majority Leader came back and rubbished all that we have done including his members on the committee… so, I consider this meeting as an illegal meeting to put together members of a legal committee. How can this be? Nobody on this team is against any judge. In fact, we actually want more of them to be vetted in a decorous and respectful way. So, nobody should blame the judges, the problem being created is created by President Akufo-Addo-Dr-Bawumia-led Majority in parliament,” he also said.

    Ato Forson, the Minority, also unhappy about the turn of things, put together a list of things his compatriot on the Majority side had done, calling them ‘sins.’

    “I’m honestly appalled. You have broken the trust of the NDC Minority Caucus and you have committed a number of sins, and I’ll tell you the sins you have committed. Your first sin, you unilaterally wrote a letter to the nominees inviting them for vetting without the input of the Appointments Committee.

    “Sin number two, you wrote to the nominees, setting Wednesday 31st without our input. Then number three, after we met as a committee, and agreed that we will do this vetting before we are recalled, so that during the recall, we will take them, you unilaterally informed them that you have not shifted the 31st you agreed to Tuesday, and going forward, you will hold it and submit the report to the House. Madam, this is not a Bana Republic. This is the Republic of Ghana. This is the Black Star of Africa; this is Kwame Nkrumah’s republic of Ghana. Please, don’t destroy our democracy.

    “At the minimum, you had to give us the opportunity to study the nominees and the people of Ghana must see us that we are doing our work. We cannot joke with this democracy,” he said.

    In response to the turmoil, the vetting process has been suspended indefinitely, leaving the matter unresolved and highlighting ongoing tensions within Parliament.

  • Mahama’s 24-hour economy plan could resolve Ghana’s economic crisis

    Mahama’s 24-hour economy plan could resolve Ghana’s economic crisis

    The Minority in Parliament has declared that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is proposing a 24-hour economy plan to address the economic difficulties caused by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The caucus contends that the Akufo-Addo administration’s irresponsible borrowing has increased Ghana’s debt to over GHC740 billion without yielding significant results.

    Eric Opoku, Ranking Member of the Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs Committee, highlighted the seriousness of the issue during a recent press conference.

    “We have been reckless and irresponsible in the last seven years in our borrowing as a nation. From March 6, 1957, to January 7, 2017, Ghana was 60 years old, and our total debt was GHC120 billion.”

    “Now, within the last seven years, we have increased our debt stock to GHC742 billion. This indicates that in the last seven years, we have borrowed GHC622 billion, unprecedented in the history of our country,” Mr. Opoku stated.

    He emphasized that the NDC’s 24-hour economy plan is the necessary remedy for the current economic turmoil.

    “To get us out of this mess, what we have to do is work hard.”

    “We used to work for 8 hours. What we’re saying is that we’re not going to rest for the remaining 16 hours. Let’s make economic use of all these hours,” Mr. Opoku explained.

  • Leave COVID out of economic mismanagement talks – Minority to gov’t

    Leave COVID out of economic mismanagement talks – Minority to gov’t

    The Minority in Parliament has criticized the government for attributing the country’s current economic challenges to the COVID-19 pandemic, asserting that economic mismanagement predates the health crisis.

    During a discussion on the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review presented by the Finance Minister, Isaac Adongo, the Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, voiced the Minority’s concerns.

    He argued that the government should not use the pandemic as an excuse for its fiscal failures.

    “Even before COVID-19, the government of the day had already plunged this country into serious fiscal quagmire. We were expected to record changes in our net international reserves. Mr. Speaker, we missed it in March and June and we’re looking at September 2024,” Adongo stated.

    He emphasized that the economic troubles were evident well before the pandemic.

    “This government had been on our case that it is because of COVID-19 that is why we’re in this situation that we find ourselves. However, the Bank of Ghana issued a statement indicating that at the time that we exited the programme in May 2019, the government of Ghana five months later was struggling with major concerns within the fiscal environment.

    Adongo firmly stated, “It is not true that our economic problems are solely due to COVID-19.”

    In response, Deputy Finance Minister Abena Osei Asare assured that the government remains committed to fiscal discipline, noting a 2.9% savings achieved in the first half of 2024.

    “Mr Speaker, in an election year, we have been able to spend within our limits, we budgeted a GHC1, 48 billion to be spent from January to June 2024, but we have spent GHC1,1 billion, we have made some savings below GHC2.9, below what was actually budgeted for. We’re bent on living within our means, we’re bent on making sure that we don’t go over and above what has been proposed for us.”

  • An experienced driver cannot debate with a driver’s mate – Minority replies Bawumia

    An experienced driver cannot debate with a driver’s mate – Minority replies Bawumia

    Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has advised Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to consider debating with Minority spokesperson on finance, Isaac Adongo rather than former President John Dramani Mahama.

    Dr. Ato Forson clarified that after Dr. Bawumia has completed debates with Isaac Adongo and former Deputy Finance Minister Kwaku Ricketts Hagan, he may then engage in a debate with former President Mahama.

    “Mr Speaker, monkeys they say play by sizes. Mr Speaker, how can a driver’s mate debate an experienced driver? Mr Speaker in this house the spokesperson for the minority on the issues of finance is Honourable Adongo.

    “The spokesperson for the minority for the issues of the economy is honourable Kwaku Ricketts Hagan and the spokesperson for the budget for the minority is honourable Ampem Darko.”

    “Mr Speaker we all know that the Chairman of the Economic Management team is the Vice President so the Vice President can only debate honourable Adongo. He should debate honourable Adongo or debate honourable Ricketts Hagan.

    “A driver’s mate cannot debate an experienced driver. Mr Speaker that is the fact. So, we throw the challenge, he should debate honourable Adongo first, honourable Ampem second, honourable Ricketts Hagan third before he considers debating former president John Mahama,” he stated.

    His remarks come as Dr Bawumia, challenged former President and NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama to a live presidential debate to present their respective visions and policies to the people of Ghana.

    Speaking to thousands of supporters in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia expressed his eagerness for a debate with Mahama.

    However, he remained skeptical about its likelihood, suggesting that Mahama might be avoiding the opportunity.

    “I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country on the governance,” Dr. Bawumia said.

    “But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn’t want to debate. I have never heard an opposition leader who doesn’t want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies,” the NPP flagbearer added.

    Dr. Bawumia further criticized former President Mahama, stating that Mahama and his team are unable to clarify their concept of a 24-hour economy. He accused Mahama of avoiding a debate to prevent being exposed, saying, “He says he has a 24-hour economy which he cannot explain. It is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it and none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants.”

    In advanced democracies, presidential debates are a staple of the electoral process. Many, including civil society groups, have advocated for a debate between the two leading candidates to allow Ghanaians to hear their policies and vision for the country.

    With Vice President Bawumia having issued the challenge, the onus is now on former President Mahama to respond.

  • Minority MPs make their way to the chamber for 2024 mid-year budget presentation

    Minority MPs make their way to the chamber for 2024 mid-year budget presentation

    The Members of Parliament on the Minority side of the House are presently in the chamber after a few hours of absence.

    Earlier, Minority side of Parliament were absent in the chamber as Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam is set to deliver the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review in Parliament today.

    It is unknown the exact reason for the delay by the Minority Members of Parliament but sources say the leadership of the Minority had to meet with the other side to negotiate on some issues.

    But presently, both the Majority and Minority side are in the chamber for the presentation.

    This marks Dr. Amin Adam’s debut budget presentation since his appointment to the role in February 2024.

    The presentation of the budget review will adhere to Section 28 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which mandates an update on the government’s fiscal performance and revised financial projections halfway through the fiscal year.

    Dr. Amin Adam’s presentation will provide an assessment of the implementation of the 2024 Budget, highlighting progress and adjustments needed.

    Additionally, he will offer an updated economic outlook for Ghana, which will include revised financial plans aimed at addressing the current economic conditions and challenges facing the country.

  • Police greenlight Minority’s second demo against BoG leadership

    Police greenlight Minority’s second demo against BoG leadership

    The Ghana Police Service has approved the Minority caucus in Parliament’s second protest, scheduled for July 30, aimed at demanding the removal of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison, and his two deputies from office.

    The approval follows productive discussions between the police and Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga. In a letter dated Wednesday, July 17, the police urged the organizers to ensure that the protest does not disturb public peace.

    The NDC MPs argue that the governor, who they claim oversaw significant mismanagement at the Central Bank, should be replaced with a more competent individual. They point to a GH¢60.81 billion loss recorded by the Bank in the 2022 fiscal year and the allocation of over $250 million for constructing a new headquarters as evidence of poor management.

    On October 3, 2023, members of the caucus organized a protest calling for the resignation of the governor and his deputies.

    The protesters gathered at the Obra Spot at Kwame Nkrumah Circle and marched through several key locations, including Adabraka, Ridge Roundabout, and the High Court Complex Traffic Light, before ending at Independence Square. However, their attempt to present a petition to the governor was thwarted when he did not meet them personally, sending his head of security instead.

    The initial protest was deemed unsuccessful, prompting the Minority caucus to plan a new protest date, which took nearly a year to finalize.

    During this period, Bawku Central MP Mahama Ayariga filed a Right to Information Act (RTI) request to the BoG, seeking detailed information on the combined losses of approximately GH¢70 billion reported in BoG’s financial statements for 2022 and 2023, as well as the over GH¢250 million spent on the new head office and a clinic under construction.

    The central bank stated that this information was available to the public.

    RE-NOTICE – POLICE RESPONDSDownload
  • Minority to stage another protest against BoG Governor on July 30th – Ayariga

    Minority to stage another protest against BoG Governor on July 30th – Ayariga

    The Minority in Parliament has announced plans for another protest against the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison, scheduled for July 30, 2024.

    They accuse him of overspending on the new Head Office building without transparency.

    Mahama Ayariga, MP for Bawku Central, stated that despite inquiries, the Governor has not disclosed the current cost of the building, which he alleges has reached $250 million.

    Additionally, there are concerns over the reassignment of land meant for the bank’s clinic to the Governor, with details being withheld.

    The Minority claims accountability is needed, having previously protested in October 2023 against the Governor and his deputies, blaming them for the Bank of Ghana’s recent financial losses.

    “Today the office is being constructed at %250 million dollars. The central bank should be held accountable,” Mr Ayariga stated.

  • Withdraw controversial road traffic regulation – Minority to Transport Minister

    Withdraw controversial road traffic regulation – Minority to Transport Minister

    The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has called on the Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, to withdraw the controversial amendment to the Road Traffic Regulations 2012.

    This directive aligns with the Minority’s firm stance against the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) aimed at granting MPs and Ministers of State privileges reserved for emergency vehicles.

    The proposed L.I., currently under parliamentary review, seeks to amend Regulation 74 of L.I. 2180, permitting the installation of sirens or bells on vehicles owned by Supreme Court justices, MPs, and Ministers of State.

    Proponents argue this change will enhance the efficiency of government officials, who often face tight schedules necessitating rapid travel between meetings and official duties.

    However, this amendment has ignited substantial debate. While some advocate for its potential to improve governmental operations, others express concerns over the broader implications of extending such privileges to elected officials.

    In a press statement dated July 16, Dr. Forson made it clear that the NDC Minority Caucus opposes the amendment.

    “We have instructed all our Members on the Committee to strongly oppose it at the committee level. We have also directed all 137 NDC Members of Parliament to vote en bloc against the Legislative Instrument when it is brought to the floor,” he asserted.

    Dr. Forson emphasized that the government should prioritize addressing the critical issues currently facing Ghanaians, such as the high cost of living, food inflation, unemployment, the high cost of fuel, the depreciation of the cedi, and a burdensome tax regime driving businesses to relocate to neighboring West African countries.

    “The government must redirect its attention to addressing the germain issues facing the people of Ghana at the moment,” he urged.

    The Subsidiary Legislation Committee has yet to present its report on the proposed amendment for parliamentary debate and discussion. However, the Minority’s clear opposition signals a significant challenge to the amendment’s passage.

    In addition to opposing the L.I., NDC MPs have urged the Minister of Transport to withdraw the Legislative Instrument before it matures into law after 21 sitting days.

  • No Parliamentary support until SSNIT hotels sale is terminated – Minority threatens gov’t

    No Parliamentary support until SSNIT hotels sale is terminated – Minority threatens gov’t

    The Minority in Parliament has urged President Akufo-Addo to direct the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to stop the sale of a 60% interest in four of its hotels.

    The NDC MPs stressed that, even though Bryan Acheampong’s private hotel has withdrawn from the transaction, they still insist on an immediate halt to the sale.

    They are calling on the government to make a public statement to notify organized labor and the Ghanaian public that it has canceled the controversial plan to sell SSNIT hotel shares to government officials under dubious circumstances.

    In a press release dated Friday, July 12, and signed by their leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority in Parliament declared that the Ghanaian public has clearly opposed the questionable scheme by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration to sell the SSNIT hotels.

    The Minority has warned that they will withhold cooperation with the government in Parliament until an official announcement of the deal’s cancellation is made.

    Additionally, they stated that if the announcement is not made by July 16, they will escalate their non-cooperation to include protests.

    “The Minority Caucus announces for the information of the general public that until the government makes it clear that it has stopped the sale of the SSNIT hotels, the NDC Caucus will no longer cooperate with the government in the handling of government business in Parliament.”

    “Again, if by close of Tuesday, 16th July, 2024 the government fails or neglects or refuses to declare that the sale of the SSNIT hotels has been abolished, we shall escalate our noncooperation to include measures such as demonstrations across the country,” an excerpt of the statement said.

    The statement highlighted Ghanaian opposition to the sale, stressing the need for transparency and accountability in managing national assets.

    The Minority called on the government to champion public interests and avoid controversial transactions.

    SSNIT has announced the suspension of its plan to sell a 60% stake in four hotels.

    Issued just before midnight on Friday, July 12, SSNIT’s decision followed the withdrawal of Rock City Hotel, owned by Minister of Food and Agriculture Bryan Acheampong, amid strong stakeholder opposition.

    The statement, signed by SSNIT Board Chair Elizabeth Ohene, who had previously supported the deal, confirmed the termination of the sale process.

    SSNIT reassured pensioners, contributors, and the public of its commitment to managing the Trust’s affairs prudently to ensure the sustainability of the pension scheme.

  • Minority vows to frustrate Parliamentary business over Majority’s absence for Bawumia’s campaign

    Minority vows to frustrate Parliamentary business over Majority’s absence for Bawumia’s campaign

    Minority in Parliament is threatening to obstruct parliamentary business if the Majority’s attendance does not improve starting next week.

    Since Parliament resumed in July, attendance from NPP MPs has been sparse, with rarely more than 30 present, leaving the Minority to shoulder the responsibility of conducting government business.

    This situation follows the recent unveiling of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as the running mate by NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    Speaking on the floor of the House, Deputy Minority Whip Ahmed Ibrahim criticised the NPP MPs for prioritising campaigning with Dr. Bawumia over their parliamentary duties.

    Mr. Ibrahim warned that if the situation persists, the Minority will instruct their legislators to also focus on campaigning, potentially crippling the House’s functionality.

  • We will frustrate Parliamentary business if NPP MPs don’t return – Minority

    We will frustrate Parliamentary business if NPP MPs don’t return – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has issued a stern warning, threatening to disrupt parliamentary proceedings if there isn’t a significant improvement in the attendance of MPs from the Majority side starting next week.

    Since Parliament reconvened in July, the Minority has expressed concern over the consistently low presence of NPP MPs, with often fewer than 30 members from the ruling party attending sessions. This situation, according to the Minority, has placed an undue burden on them to manage government business effectively.

    The Minority’s Deputy Whip, Ahmed Ibrahim, voiced their grievances on the floor of the House, attributing the absenteeism to NPP MPs accompanying their flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on campaign activities following the unveiling of his running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh.

    Mr. Ibrahim emphasized that the Minority cannot continue to shoulder the responsibility of conducting legislative business alone while the Majority neglects their parliamentary duties.

    “We will also instruct our legislators to prioritize campaigning if this trend continues, which will undoubtedly cripple the functioning of the House,” Mr. Ibrahim warned.

  • Second phase of Minority’s #OccupyBoGProtest to take off on July 30

    Second phase of Minority’s #OccupyBoGProtest to take off on July 30

    The Minority caucus in Parliament has formally informed the Ghana Police Service of their plans to stage a protest demanding the resignation of the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), Dr. Ernest Addison, and his two deputies.

    Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, sent a letter to the Greater Accra Regional Police command outlining their grievances and intentions.

    The protest is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 8 am to 6 pm in Accra, Greater Accra Region.

    Starting at Obra Spot in Kwame Nkrumah Circle, the demonstrators will march through Adabraka to Kingsway and culminate at the Bank of Ghana headquarters.

    The protest is centered around concerns regarding the ongoing construction of the BoG’s new headquarters in North Ridge.

    “The Governor of the Central Bank and his board continue to engage in wasteful spending on the new Bank of Ghana Corporate head office building and refuse to answer questions on the latest cost of the building which, we are told, has now further escalated to over Two Hundred and Seventy Million United States Dollars (USD$270 million) from its original estimated cost of USD81,882,640.00.

    “The Governor again has embarked on the construction of a new house for the Governor himself at a speculated cost of Forty Million United States Dollars (USD$40million) and has refused to disclose to us the actual cost when the Minority wrote to him requesting the information on the cost of the Governor’s house under construction.”

    The caucus members organized a comparable protest on October 3, 2023, in response to the Bank’s reported GH¢60.81 billion loss in the 2022 fiscal year.

    “Governor Addison has acted illegally in printing money for government without recourse to Parliament and similarly wrote off about GH¢48.4 billion of government debt. After the BoG recorded a colossal loss of over GH¢60.8 billion and negative equity of over GH¢55 billion we concluded that the bank has become insolvent. This is now confirmed by the BoG request for recapitalization by Central Government,” the Minority’s letter added.

  • Reconsider your “regrettable” decision to boycott Dep. Trade Minister vetting – Majority to Minority

    Reconsider your “regrettable” decision to boycott Dep. Trade Minister vetting – Majority to Minority

    The Majority Caucus in Parliament has expressed dismay over the Minority Caucus’s decision to boycott the vetting of the Deputy Minister-designate for Trade and Industry.

    In a statement issued on July 2, the Majority Caucus described the reasons given by the Minority for their action as regrettable.

    The statement underscored the government’s commitment to a comprehensive approach in addressing national challenges, emphasizing the importance of incorporating input from all sectors of society into national development initiatives.

    “While acknowledging the government’s achievements, the Majority Caucus also highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the nation and stressed the necessity of uninterrupted governance,” the statement read.

    “Our fellow citizens across the country would not look kindly upon this esteemed House if we allow a disruption in governance simply due to impending elections,” it added.

    The boycott by the Minority on the Appointments Committee, which oversees the vetting of government appointees, has raised concerns about the legislative process and the smooth functioning of government affairs.

    The Majority Caucus’s statement comes amidst broader discussions about parliamentary procedures and the role of opposition parties in ensuring effective governance and accountability.

    Efforts to reach the Minority Caucus for comment on their decision to boycott the vetting process have not yet yielded a response.

    Majority-CaucusDownload
  • Minority absent from Deputy Trade Minister-designate vetting

    Minority absent from Deputy Trade Minister-designate vetting

    Members of the Minority Caucus on the Appointments Committee of Parliament have opted out of the vetting process for the Deputy Minister-designate for Trade and Industry.

    Kofi Ahenkorah-Marfo, set to undergo vetting on July 2, has been the subject of this decision, as indicated in a press release signed by Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    The Minority cited ongoing economic challenges as their reason for abstaining from the vetting, emphasizing that current conditions make participation untenable.

    They highlighted issues such as the relocation of international companies from Ghana, arguing that these circumstances call for government downsizing rather than expansion.

    “We are again unable to support this nomination by President Akufo-Addo at this time because our country has gone through (and continues to go through) very difficult periods, including the crippling economic crisis, food insecurity, debt default as a result of excessive borrowing, corruption in government and wasteful and reckless expenditures.

    “With ordinary Ghanaians going through excruciating hardships and businesses relocating from Ghana as a result of the high tax regime created by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, one would have expected the President to downsize his already large government. This would have sent a signal to the people that the President was mindful of the economic realities and was willing to do things differently to restore the needed confidence in the economy.”

    They expressed disappointment that amid widespread hardship and business departures due to high taxes, President Akufo-Addo has not downsized his administration to reflect economic realities and restore public confidence.

  • This is a coup – Minority’s reaction on Kwaku Kwarteng’s removal from Finance Committee

    This is a coup – Minority’s reaction on Kwaku Kwarteng’s removal from Finance Committee

    The Minority caucus in Parliament has characterized the reassignment of Obuasi West MP, Kwaku Kwarteng, from his role as Chairman of the Finance Committee as an “overthrow” engineered by the Majority leadership.

    This follows an unexpected announcement by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin regarding changes in the majority leadership, which surprised some Majority MPs.

    Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Friday, June 28, the Majority Leader revealed that Kwaku Kwarteng had been moved from the Finance Committee to chair the new Economy Committee.

    He justified this decision by emphasizing Mr. Kwarteng’s competence in handling economic matters and his ability to effectively challenge the opposition’s representative on economic issues.

    “We are challenging you to come up with your spokesperson on the economy. You have not said so officially, but we are going to make sure we have a spokesperson on the economy to challenge your Adonko. Hon. Kwaku Kwarteng is going to face him directly on the economy,” Mr Afenyo-Markin stated.

    In response, the Minority in Parliament has condemned the reshuffle.

    Addressing the House on Friday, June 28, Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah contended that the move was unconstitutional, alleging that the Majority Leader had overstepped his authority by taking powers reserved for the Speaker of Parliament to make such changes.

    “He’s the Majority Leader, and he should know better not to usurp the power of the Speaker, the Chairman of the Committee of Selection and to come here to simply announce without the knowledge of the Speaker.

    “..The existing Chairman of the Finance Committee without the knowledge of the Speaker, without a meeting of the Committee of Selection – the Majority Leader will come to this House to simply announce that he has overthrown him and made changes,” Mr Buah lamented.

  • Government is yet to present Free SHS bill before parliament – Minority

    Government is yet to present Free SHS bill before parliament – Minority

    Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has called on the government to promptly present the Free SHS bill to the House, emphasizing the minority’s support for any legislation aimed at improving and sustaining the Free SHS policy.

    Addressing the media, Dr. Forson debunked claims that the minority will oppose the Free Senior High School (SHS) bill, which is yet to be presented before Parliament.

    “We are here to address a major desperation on the ruling NPP and the members of parliament working for the government, particularly the majority leader. In the last few days, the majority leader is on record to have accused the NDC minority of not supporting the Free SHS bill. Let me put on record that there is no such bill before Parliament.”

    “We are hearing from him, for the first time, that the government is considering a bill to be presented to Parliament called the Free SHS bill. As we speak, there is no bill. It is important for us to reiterate that we cannot oppose a bill we have not seen. We have not said anywhere that we are going to oppose such a bill. We are rather urging the NPP to hurry up in presenting such a bill to Parliament.”

    He further highlighted that this is the first time the minority is hearing about the government’s consideration of a Free SHS bill.

    “The minority will at all times support any legislation that seeks to improve and sustain the Free SHS policy,” he stated.

    He also addressed accusations regarding the NDC’s stance on the policy, pointing out that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is on record expressing skepticism about the need for a Free SHS law.


    “In fact, if there is anybody in this country who is on record to have said that he does not believe in the Free SHS law, it is rather Dr. Bawumia. He is on record to have said that there is no need for a law or a bill to regulate Free SHS, not the NDC. All he said we need is commitment.”

  • Minority calls on Youth and Sports Minister to provide expenditure on 2023 Africa Games

    Minority calls on Youth and Sports Minister to provide expenditure on 2023 Africa Games

    The Minority is amplifying its demands for an audit of the expenses linked to the 2023 Africa Games, which Ghana hosted earlier this year.

    This move comes in response to Youth and Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif’s acclaim of the games’ success without offering a comprehensive financial report.

    Members of the Minority in Parliament, such as North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, have criticized the Minister for his failure to disclose the utilization of public funds.

    Mr. Ablakwa stated that there hasn’t been a breakdown of the money’s usage, even though expenditures surpassed the approved budget.

    “Why can’t we be told? Already we have raised concerns about the huge expenditure way beyond what this house approved. We know that $195 million was spent on infrastructure. We intercepted documents that revealed that they had budgeted to spend $48 million on so-called operational expenses.

    “We have not less than 245 million US dollars for this whole hosting of events and committed close to $195 million for infrastructure development,” he said.

    Minority leader, Cassiel Ato Forson said, “We know for sure $15 million was allocated to a company called M and L Company Limited for 18 days of feeding.”

    “That amounts to 226 million cedis for 18 days. You cannot come here and deliver a statement without accounting for $15 million for 18 days. This is public money.”

    Former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu emphasized that the constitution stipulates that accounting for public fund usage necessitates time.

    “What it means that after the event, you cannot say that within two weeks or three weeks, the minister should be able to come before this house and explain everything. The minority leader fortunately is an accountant and he understands these things.”

    Yet, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin argued that the Minority Leader’s call for an audit at this juncture is unwarranted.

    “They have finished their work. Instead of commending the minister for a good job that you want to use the opportunity to critique and say things that are not factual.”

    In the meantime, the Minister of Youth and Sports has pledged to provide a detailed financial account of all expenses incurred during the games.

    “We are not hiding anything. I want that clarity to be made. Every cedi is going to be accounted for. Be rest assured. Rather you should congratulate team Ghana, because so far we have not seen the minority issue any statement in congratulating the sportsmen and women who fought very hard in lifting the flag of the country very high. Neither did the leadership of the majority or even the ranking member or even the committee for the sports.”

  • Minority to protest over locked up medical supplies at the Port

    Minority to protest over locked up medical supplies at the Port

    Minority in Parliament has declared its preparedness to stage protests if the government does not promptly resolve the issue of stalled containers holding crucial medical supplies at the Tema Port.

    Despite assurances from Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye that efforts were underway to clear these containers, the Minority noted that several of them still languished uncleared at the port.

    “The Minority will not relent in our efforts to push-clear those locked-up commodities and drugs from the port,” they added.

    At a press conference in Parliament on Thursday, the Ranking Member of the Health Committee, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, said: “As we speak now, not all the containers of drugs and commodities at the port have been cleared.

    “We are a group of reasonable people, and so we have heard the plea by the Minister of Health that we should give him two weeks.

    “That notwithstanding, we have heard him, but we are sending a clear warning that within his own two weeks, all the containers of drugs should be cleared from the port, and not some as they have been doing,” he added.

    Mr Akandoh, who is also the MP for Juaboso, observed that in spite of persistant pressure on the government to clear all the containers, it was dragging its feet.

    In his view, the “insensitivity and irresponsibility” of the government had become legendary.

    “I think that when it comes to matters of health, the government must move with alacrity because it borders on the lives of the people,” he said.

    The government released some funds to the Ministry of Health last week to facilitate the clearance of essential medical supplies that had stalled at the Tema port for over a year now.

    “The Ministry of Health’s receipt of GH¢7,429,694.39 from the Ministry of Finance for the settlement of demurrage highlights a concerted effort to expedite the clearance of the medical commodities,” a release issued by the ministry said.

    The allocation was made to address the extended delay in clearing essential supplies donated by the Global Fund for Community Foundation, intended to support Ghana.

    These supplies, gifted by the Global Fund at no cost, have been stuck in bureaucratic hurdles, causing significant delays in their release from the port.

    The government is obligated to settle taxes, levies, and port charges totaling US$3.6 million, which are required to facilitate the release of these commodities.

  • Minority to protest over uncleared medical supplies at Tema Port

    Minority to protest over uncleared medical supplies at Tema Port

    The Minority Caucus in Parliament has issued a threat of staging a demonstration if the government doesn’t promptly clear all essential medical supplies currently stuck at the Tema Port.

    This ultimatum comes in response to a directive from the Health Minister, who gave officials two weeks to release a shipment donated by the Global Fund to Ghana.

    Health Minister Bernard, Okoe Boye, vowed to personally oversee operations at the port if the deadline passes without action.

    Speaking to reporters, Ranking Member on the Health Committee of Parliament, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, emphasized the Minority’s determination to pressurize the government into clearing the stalled medical supplies.

    He criticized the government for pleading for an additional two weeks to resolve an issue that has persisted for over a year.

    Additionally, Mr Akandoh urged the government to urgently address grievances raised by the Medical Laboratory Professional Workers’ Union to prevent health workers from seeking employment abroad.

    “Remember, we addressed you on the locked-up commodities and medications at the port. And as you know, we the members of parliament from the Minority side will not relent in our effort to push the government to clear these locked-up commodities and drugs until they are cleared from the port. That must be put on record and as we speak, not all the containers containing drugs and commodities at the port have been cleared.

    “We are a group of reasonable people and so we have heard the plea by the minister responsible for help that we should give him two weeks.

    “Although it doesn’t make any sense to plead for two weeks to clear commodities that have been at the port for one good year, we have heard him but we are sending a clear signal and warning that within his own two weeks, all, and the emphasis is all, all the containers, containing these drugs should be cleared from the port.
    Not some, as they have been doing.”

  • We’re not against Free SHS Bill – Minority

    We’re not against Free SHS Bill – Minority

    The Minority in Parliament has declared its endorsement of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) Bill, pending its presentation to Parliament.

    This decision is aimed at dispelling speculations suggesting that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) intends to revoke the policy if it assumes power in the future.

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee, Dr. Clement Apaak, highlighted in a statement that the Minority does not oppose FSHS and welcomes the proposed bill.

    He emphasized that the bill would bind future governments to uphold the policy. Dr. Apaak also referenced former President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to enhancing the implementation of FSHS, addressing issues such as inadequate infrastructure, food quality, and irregular academic calendars.

    While awaiting the details of the bill, Mr. Apaak stated that the Minority supports the initiative in principle, aiming to secure the future of FSHS.

    The government is poised to introduce the Free Senior High School (SHS) Bill to Parliament shortly, with the objective of regulating the policy and ensuring its sustainability.

    During a Leaders’ Media Briefing on Tuesday, June 11, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin revealed that the bill aims to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of the policy, aligning with the principles outlined in Chapter 5 of the Constitution.

    Find below the statement by the Minority

    WE ARE NOT OPPOSED TO A BILL ON FSHS BILL

    We are not opposed to FSHS and therefore can not be opposed to a proposed bill to bind future government to it. As John Dramani Mahama noted during his meeting with the national leadership of CHASS on May 8th, 2024, he will work with them and all stakeholders to make FSHS better.

    Our Flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has indicated time without number that, the FSHS policy is a good policy bedevilled with implementation challenges: inadequate academic and residential infrastructure; inadequate and poor quality food; inadequate furniture; erratic academic calendar, among others. John Dramani Mahama has pledged to address these challenges to make FSHS better.

    So, while we wait to see the proposed bill and examine its contents in detail, in principle, we have no challenge supporting a bill seeking to ensure its future.

    Dr. Clement Apaak
    MP, Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member, Education Committee of Parliament.

  • Minority criticizes govt’s unnecessary suspension of road tolls

    The Minority in Parliament has harshly condemned the government’s plan to reintroduce road tolls, labeling the move as ill-advised and a sign of poor governance.

    The Ministry of Roads and Highways recently disclosed that it has started consultations with key stakeholders to finalize the reimplementation of road tolls.

    This initiative is intended to finance the repair of the country’s deteriorating roads.

    Speaking to journalists in Accra on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Minority Chief Whip Governs Agbodza criticized the decision, asserting that it reflects a lack of seriousness and effective governance within the current administration.

    “That is quite an interesting position by the current road minister. In fact, isn’t it the case that he was part of the cabinet when the decision was taken to suspend the collection of tolls? And when Mr. Speaker and all of us drew attention to the fact that that singular action was illegal, they told Mr. Speaker to go to the toll booth to collect the toll himself if he likes.”

    “This is just a testament to a government that is wayward, has lost touch, and doesn’t know what it wants,” Mr. Agbodza asserted.

    He also accused the government of suspending road tolls as a propaganda tactic to promote the E-levy to Ghanaians.

    “Cabinet decided to suspend the collection of tolls as propaganda to foist the E-levy down the throats of Ghanaians. We are paying the E-levy today. They want to take more money from you, so they are coming back to condemn each other to say that they want to collect tolls.”

    “Then the entire government is condemned. They cannot pick and choose who is upright in the government,” he intimated.

    Mr. Agbodza reiterated the Minority’s ongoing opposition to the suspension of road tolls, describing it as unnecessary and poorly conceived.

    “So, we wait. We have been consistently saying that there was no need to suspend the collection of tolls. So, Ghanaians can see which part of the political divide can be trusted and is consistent with policies in this country.

    “Obviously, the NPP’s record of being straight and fair to Ghanaians has been called into question so many times,” he stated.

  • Majority calls on Minority to back govt in fostering domestic economic growth

    Majority calls on Minority to back govt in fostering domestic economic growth


    The Majority Caucus in Parliament on Thursday accused the National Democratic Congress Minority Caucus of trying to hinder Ghana’s economic progress by consistently opposing certain tax exemptions currently being considered by the House.

    Consequently, the Majority Caucus has urged the Minority Caucus to assist the government in advancing the country’s economic growth.

    The call from the Majority Caucus arose after the Minority Caucus rejected a request for a $350 million tax exemption for 42 companies under the government’s One District One Factory initiative (1D1F).

    During the House’s recall on Friday, May 17, the Minority, led by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, questioned the rationale behind such exemptions when the government was facing financial difficulties due to the economic crisis.

    Addressing the Parliamentary Press Corps in Parliament on Thursday, MAlexander Afenyo-Markin stated:

    “The Minority leader, Dr Ato Forson is leading that charge on behalf of the minority NDC in Parliament, and their main aim is to obstruct government business and to deny the people of Ghana the needed economic growth, which will result from businesses investing in the country and expanding their businesses.”

    He revealed that there were up to $400 million worth of tax waiver requests that had been pending at the Finance Committee for over three years, entangled in a political stalemate.

    “However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has vowed to block these requests at every turn, and they are being hypocritical,” he said.

    Mr Afenyo-Markin alleged that the NDC government, led by former President John Dramani Mahama, had granted Members of Parliament (MPs) more than $800 million in tax waivers during their tenure.

    “But we know that in 2016, this country experienced the most outrageous tax giveaway we’ve ever seen in Ghana when the NDC led by President John Mahama handed a tax waiver of $832 million to Meridian Port Services. At the time, the NDC government applied for a tax waiver of $982 million for the port project,” he said.

  • We saved Ghana $150m by objecting excessive tax implementation – Minority

    We saved Ghana $150m by objecting excessive tax implementation – Minority

    The Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has asserted that the Minority in Parliament played a vital role in saving Ghana $150 million by contesting the government’s tax waivers for 42 companies linked to the One-District-One-Factory initiative.

    He elaborated that through the Minority’s objections to certain evaluations of these companies, the waivers were revised from $459 million down to $335 million.

    In an interview with Bernard Avle on The Point of View aired on Citi TV, Dr. Forson referenced a specific case involving an oil refinery, which he believed was overvalued in its assessment.

    “We worked for Parliament to institute a guideline and also worked for Parliament to approve tax exemptions Act. Since then, the government started submitting some tax exemptions and upon scrutiny, we noticed something fundamentally wrong with it.

    “For example, there was one tax waiver for a company which has constructed an oil refinery [Sentuo Oil Refinery]. The finance ministry had done some assessments and sent them to us for approval. At the time, they brought it, it was about $300 and something million. We said we wanted to see the assessment, we looked at it, and we asked where it was coming from, and they said the Ministry of Finance and Ghana Revenue Authority.

    “My assessment was that the GRA and the ministry cannot competently assess what goes into an oil refinery. They have to do that with the National Petroleum Authority because they are clothed with the competence to be able to do that, before we can sit and consider it, to date, that has not been done. Until the NPA validates that, there’s no way I can support it…We have heard the refinery is a secondhand refinery. The assessment may have been bloated.

    He emphasized the need for comprehensive assessments by competent authorities, particularly highlighting the role of the National Petroleum Authority in evaluating oil refinery projects.

    Dr. Forson emphasized that their interventions led to a reduction in tax exemptions, saving taxpayers approximately $150 million.

    He clarified that their concern was not against tax exemptions in general but specifically targeted those associated with the 1D1F project, citing instances of perceived abuse.

    Regarding the release of the tax waiver request list for companies under the 1D1F initiative in May 2024, Dr. Forson reiterated their stance against certain tax waivers approved under the initiative, emphasizing the need for periodic reviews to address any abuses.

    In 2021, the Ministry of Finance initiated processes to secure tax exemptions totaling approximately $335,072,712.13 for 42 companies under the One District One Factory initiative, as presented in Parliament through the Exemptions Act, 2022 (Act 1083) by former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

    “Since the time we stopped all of these, at the point, the value of those exemptions was $459 million… They had subsequently gone back, reviewed some of these tax exemptions and brought a revised amount worth $335 million, by that press statement alone. Based on our resistance alone, we have saved the nation almost $150 million. There have been some improvements. We’ve saved the taxpayer some money.”

    “We’re not against tax exemptions in principle, but with this particular tax exemption for the 1D1F project, we have issues. For 2021, we felt that there was a need to review that policy because we have seen some abuses. And it’s only right at a point in time for a government or Parliament to review its position on certain things if you get additional information. From 2021, we took a strong view against some of the tax waivers approved under 1D1F.”

  • Minority, Majority leaders meet Akufo-Addo for crunch meeting over national issues

    Minority, Majority leaders meet Akufo-Addo for crunch meeting over national issues

    Minority in Parliament revealed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo convened a meeting with both the Minority and Majority caucus leadership on Monday, May 20, 2024.

    According to the NDC MPs, the hour-long meeting centered on issues of national significance.

    In a press release issued by Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority leadership expressed appreciation to the president for extending the invitation.

    Dr. Forson emphasized the importance of the discussion and the opportunity it presented for addressing critical national concerns from both sides.

    He highlighted the meeting’s significance in emphasizing the necessity of dialogue and collaboration among different political factions in Parliament.

    The Minority reaffirmed their dedication to engaging constructively with the government on matters impacting the nation.

    “At the invitation of the President, the leadership of Parliament, made up of both Caucuses, on Monday met with President Akufo-Addo at the Presidency.

    “The meeting, which lasted for about an hour, was cordial and frank. It discussed issues of national concern.

    “The leadership of the Minority takes the opportunity to thank the President for the invitation,” parts of the statement said.