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The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has declined a request made of him by the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to recall the House.
In a memo addressed to the majority leader, the Speaker cited the electioneering of Members of Parliament (MPs) as basis for his decision.
“As you are aware, the parliamentary calendar acknowledges election campaign periods. This season is for the government, parties and both presidential and parliamentary candidates to present their manifestos to the people and to account and justify how the mandate given them by the voters for the four-year term of office has been applied to the benefit of the people.
“Bearing in mind the provisions of Article 296 (a) and (b) of the 1992 Constitution and the closeness of your proposed dates to the general election, I am of the considered opinion that it would not be in the national interest to interrupt the campaigns of Members and parties by a recall to plenary sitting of Parliament.
“Consequently, it will not be fair to exercise my discretion in favour of your request to summon Members at this time,” the Speaker said.
Mr Afenyo-Markin, who is also MP for Effutu, on November 22, 2024 requested the speaker to recall the House for a two-day meeting to undertake some urgent government businesses.
The majority leader listed 22 items including the request for approval of tax exemptions for designated beneficiaries under the One District, One Factory policy, a US$250 million Ghana Stability Fund loan facility, request for the ratification of two mining lease agreements and 17 bills.
But, the Speaker wondered how such a tall order, having regard to the practices and deliberations of the House, could be executed with the proposed two days.
Mr Bagbin, consequently, suggested to the Majority Leader and by extension government, to prioritise the businesses for consideration after the conduct of the polls.
“The House will resume after the elections to complete all essential matters before a seamless transition to the ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic.
“The national interest would better be served if Members exhibit conduct of honour, empathy and humility in the performance of their duties.
“In the circumstance, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favour of your request. The request is accordingly declined,” the Speaker said.
BY JULIUS YAO PETETSI
