Parliament Wraps Up Third Session with Key Bills Passed

Ghanaian lawmakers on Tuesday (31 July) wrapped up the Third Meeting of the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament.

The session, which began on 11th June 2024, saw the passage of several significant bills aimed at advancing national development and addressing critical issues.

Parliamentary debates and discussions on a wide range of issues and policies were held during the meeting to advance Ghana’s development and address urgent domestic concerns.

Bills Passed

National Roads Authority Bill, 2024

One of the major bills passed during this meeting was the National Roads Authority Bill, 2024. This bill establishes the National Roads Authority as a single organization responsible for planning, development, maintenance, and administration of the national road network. By merging the Ghana Highway Authority, the Department of Feeder Roads, and the Department of Urban Roads, the new Authority aims to improve road management efficiency and oversight.

National Service Authority Bill, 2024

Parliament also passed the National Service Authority Bill, 2024, establishing the National Service Authority as a corporate entity with the legal authority to create and implement national service policies and programs. The Act empowers the Authority to generate internal funds to supplement government efforts in creating employment opportunities for the youth and encourages youth entrepreneurship through the national service program.

Ghana Civil Aviation Bill, 2024

The Ghana Civil Aviation Bill, 2024, which replaces the Ghana Civil Aviation Act, 2004 (Act 678), was also passed. This new legislation establishes the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) as an autonomous body responsible for aviation safety and security in the country. The Act introduces stricter safety and security regulations and provides a legal framework for the GCAA to manage air navigation services, aligning with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Ghana Shippers’ Authority Bill, 2024

Another significant legislation passed was the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Bill, 2024. This Act aims to improve the regulation of commercial activities related to shipping in Ghana by amending the Ghana Shippers’ Authority Act, 1974 (NRCD 254). The new law addresses unfair and excessive charges imposed on traders using Ghana’s ports and borders, strengthens regulatory oversight, and safeguards the interests of shippers and shipping service providers.

Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Bill, 2024

The passage of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Bill, 2024, marks a significant advancement in promoting gender equity in Ghana. The Act mandates the government to ensure “progressive equitable representation of women” in governance, public office, and decision-making positions, setting specific targets for women’s participation in various sectors.

Reconstitution of Parliamentary Committees

During this meeting, Parliament reconstituted some of its committees in accordance with the new Standing Orders by realigning their membership and mandates. This realignment was guided by Article 103(4) of the 1992 Constitution, which provides that every Member of Parliament shall be a member of at least one of the Standing Committees.

Mid-Year Budget Review

The Minister for Finance, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, presented the 2024 Mid-Year Budget Review. He highlighted the resilience of Ghana’s economy, growing at a rate of 4.7% in the first quarter of 2024, and emphasized the government’s efforts towards fiscal consolidation and debt sustainability without seeking additional funding.

30th Anniversary Activities

In commemoration of 30 years of uninterrupted parliamentary democracy in Ghana, Parliament hosted a soccer match dubbed “The Democracy Cup.” The inaugural edition took place at the Accra Sports Stadium, featuring a match between Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak. Kumasi Asante Kotoko emerged victorious, defeating Hearts of Oak 2-1. Additionally, the Speaker led public forums and mock parliaments in Techiman, Sunyani, and Kumasi to engage with the public and celebrate the milestone.

Walk Out

During the meeting, there was a tense moment when the Marshall walked out the Member of Parliament for Sefwi Wiawso, Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, from the Chamber on the orders of the Rt Hon Speaker. This incident underscored the importance of maintaining decorum and respect within Ghana’s Parliament.

Brief from EC Chairperson

As Ghana prepares for the 2024 general elections in December, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Mrs. Jean Adukwei Mensa, briefed Parliament on the Commission’s preparedness to conduct free, fair, and transparent polls.

Public Hearing of Committees

The Appointments Committee, Public Accounts Committee, and the Committee on Assurances held public hearings as part of Parliament’s oversight responsibility.

The House has since adjourned sine dine.