Parliament has reopened for the fourth session of the seventh parliament of the fourth republic of Ghana.
In his address to welcome MPs, Professor Aaron Mike Ocquaye, said “since we are in an election year, do not allow undue intervention, be it politics or whatsoever in the Chamber, to maintain the dignity and decorum of this noble house.”
He urged members of parliament to comport themselves and focus on business of the House without any delay.
Some bills for consideration are: Narcotics Control Commission Bill, 2019, Corporate Insolvency Bill, 2019, Land Bill, 2019 and the others are Conduct of Public Officers Bill, 2018 and Affirmative Action etc.
The Minority Leader, Haruna Ifdrisu for his part, admitted that, “this is critical year for us all, since our democracy will be put to a test again come December 7 to elect President and Members of Parliament”.
He asked the security agencies to demonstrate absolutely neutrality this year, and reminded the EC to organise free, fair and transparent election.
Mr. Haruna also entreated the media to be circumspect in their reportage in the interest of Ghana “to maintain the existing peace that we are enjoying”.
On his part, the Majority Leader and leader of Government Business, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonso said, “this meeting is going to be very challenging one as very essential bills are before the house for consideration.”
His admonished Ministers of State to be punctual with government business in spite of the fact that, they have to campaign for the primaries slated for April, 2020.
He advised his colleagues NPP MPs to prepare to manage any shock or “internal breeding” the primaries may bring.
He also charged the entire house to provide “effective leadership” to their respective Constituents for growth and development.
Story by Edzorna Francis Mensah.
