The sitting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) was suspended about an hour and a half into its session due to a lack of quorum in Parliament.
Concerns have been raised over the low turnout for government business, particularly from the Minority, who have consistently urged the Speaker to address the issue.
Originally scheduled for March 24, 2026, the PAC meeting was rescheduled to allow proceedings to take place. However, as the committee resumed and the plenary chamber was also in session, it became necessary for the Majority side to ensure sufficient numbers to conduct business.
The Majority Whip reportedly directed members of the committee to prioritise proceedings in the chamber, leading to reduced attendance at the committee sitting.
This prompted the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, Abena Osei-Asare, to seek guidance from the Speaker, expressing concern over the disruption.
She stressed the need for collaboration between leadership to ensure committees can fulfil their mandates without being affected by quorum challenges.
The PAC is currently investigating about GH₵68 billion in arrears, as well as other accounts maintained by the Accountant General and a forensic audit conducted by the government.
Despite the committee’s work, Majority members reportedly moved to the chamber to participate in urgent government business during the plenary session.
Acting Speaker Bernard Ahiafor has since directed caucus leaders and committee chairpersons to coordinate better to avoid clashes between committee sittings and plenary proceedings.
Under parliamentary practice, at least one-third of members must be present to begin government business, while a two-thirds majority is required for decisions to be made.
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