The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has called for the amendment of Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution since it does not currently serve the purpose for which it was created.
He made the call at a public forum in Kumasi to mark the 30th anniversary of the Fourth Republican Parliament. It was on the theme: “Thirty Years of Parliamentary Democracy under the Fourth Republic, the Journey Thus Far”.
Ghana marked its 30th anniversary of the Fourth Republic last year, enjoying continuous multi-party constitutional democratic rule for three decades.
This notwithstanding, Ghana’s political past witnessed some unconstitutional governments at various intervals along the way. It was therefore imperative that Parliament celebrates 30 years of stable and thriving parliamentary democracy.
The public forum in Kumasi formed part of a year-long programme of activities that Parliament has been engaging in nationwide.
At the ceremony, Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin explained the rationale behind gratitude which is backed by Article 71 of the Fourth Republican Constitution and how it is not serving its purpose.
Mr. Bagbin also expressed concern about the low representation of women in decision making and leadership roles in the country.
The Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu urged Parliamentarians to do due diligence by scrutinizing financial agreements brought before the House to ensure value for money, while helping to reduce both local and foreign debts.
Among those who graced the function were traditional leaders, parliamentary caucuses from the majority and minority side and students from second cycle institutions.
