The House is expected to proceed on recess after concluding business for the meeting, which included the presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.

During the session, lawmakers considered and passed a number of significant bills.

Among them was the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, which seeks to criminalise LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana.

Parliament also approved the Tribunals Bill, paving the way for the establishment of Regional and District Tribunals to help ease the growing backlog of cases within the country’s judicial system.

Other notable legislation passed during the meeting includes the National Defence University Ghana Bill, which provides the legal framework for the establishment of the university, and the Community Service Bill.

The Community Service Bill introduces community service as an alternative to custodial sentences for individuals convicted of specified offences, with the aim of promoting rehabilitation while easing pressure on the country’s prisons.

The adjournment will bring to a close a parliamentary meeting that saw the consideration of key legislative reforms alongside the government’s mid-year review of the economy.

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First Deputy Minority Whip and Member of Parliament for Tolon, Habib Iddrisu, issued the warning on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, July 22.

He said the budget review should instead focus on accounting for the government’s campaign promises, clearing outstanding payments owed to contractors and providing updates on flagship programmes.

Mr Iddrisu insisted that Parliament had already approved significant funding for the government and would not support any fresh request for money.

“If the finance minister comes here to this house tomorrow, we will be observing and monitoring every line of his statement or his budget, and we beg him; he should not come and ask for any money because we will not give him any money because of the money that we have given,” he said.

He said one of the key issues Ghanaians expect the Finance Minister to address is the payment of arrears owed to local contractors, many of whom he said are facing difficulties due to delayed payments.

“What Ghanaians are expecting of him in the statement is to state clearly and pay Ghanaian contractors. Ghanaian contractors have not been paid; they are suffering, there is no money in the system,” he stated.

The Minority also demanded updates on government’s flagship initiatives, including the Nkoko Nkitinkiti programme, the proposed 24-hour economy, the Women’s Development Bank and the One, Three, Three (133) initiative.

According to the caucus, several of the programmes remain largely unimplemented despite earlier promises.

“The jobs that they promised Ghanaian youth, including NDC youth, is only on paper,” Mr Iddrisu said.

He further criticised the pace of implementation of government policies, describing initiatives such as the 24-hour economy, Women’s Development Bank, 133 programme and payments to contractors as yet to materialise.

The Minority maintained that the government must demonstrate progress on its commitments before seeking additional financial support from Parliament.

It also pointed to Parliament’s recent approval of a loan facility of about US$1 billion, arguing that the focus should be on the effective utilisation of existing funds.

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is expected to present the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review later today, providing an assessment of the economy’s performance in the first half of the year and outlining updated fiscal projections for the remainder of 2026.

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The symbolic protest comes a day after the High Court found Chairman Wontumi guilty in a case linked to illegal mining and sentenced him to 20 years’ imprisonment.

The NPP MPs said the gesture was to express solidarity with the party’s Ashanti Regional Chairman and register their dissatisfaction with the court’s decision.

Several lawmakers maintained that they disagreed with the judgment and expressed confidence that it would be overturned through the appellate process.

The protest follows separate statements issued by the Parliamentary Minority and the NPP, both rejecting the verdict and arguing that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

According to the party, Chairman Wontumi lawfully acquired the mining concession in question and did not unlawfully assign or transfer any mineral rights, contrary to the trial court’s findings.

The NPP has since announced plans to appeal the conviction, describing the ruling as a miscarriage of justice and expressing confidence that the Court of Appeal will overturn the decision.

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The caucus has pledged to challenge the decision in the higher courts, citing what it says are constitutional and legal concerns surrounding the trial.

In a statement issued on Monday, July 20, and signed by Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the caucus accused the trial process of being marred by procedural irregularities and selective prosecution.

Chairman Wontumi and his company, Akonta Mining Limited, were convicted by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay on two counts each under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended, and sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment.

The Minority argued that the High Court erred by delivering judgment in the absence of Wontumi’s lead counsel, who had informed the court that he would be outside the jurisdiction due to a prior professional engagement.

According to the caucus, proceeding with the judgment without the accused person’s lawyer of choice breached Article 19(2)(g) of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees every accused person the right to legal representation of their choice.

The Minority referenced the case of former Ghana National Petroleum Corporation Chief Executive Tsatsu Tsikata, whose conviction was overturned by the Court of Appeal in 2016, arguing that the principle of a fair trial must apply equally regardless of political affiliation.

“If the right to counsel of choice mattered in 2003, it matters in 2026, and it matters exactly as much when the accused sits on the other side of the political aisle,” the statement said.

The caucus also challenged the court’s refusal to refer constitutional questions surrounding Section 99(2)(b) of Act 703 to the Supreme Court under Article 130 of the Constitution.

It argued that, based on the Supreme Court’s decision in Republic v. The High Court, General Jurisdiction 6, Accra; Ex Parte Dr. Zanetor A. Rawlings (2016), the High Court lacked the authority to determine that the constitutional questions raised were clear enough to avoid a referral to the apex court.

The Minority further questioned the court’s decision to lift the corporate veil of Akonta Mining Limited and hold Chairman Wontumi personally liable, describing the move as an exceptional legal remedy that requires appellate scrutiny.

While maintaining its support for efforts to combat illegal mining, the caucus accused the government of selectively applying the law based on political considerations.

It questioned why investigations reportedly ordered by the Attorney-General on July 15, 2025, into alleged illegal mining activities involving National Organiser Joseph Yamin and National Vice Chairman Yakubu Abanga had not led to prosecutions.

The Minority also cited what it described as the lack of action over the alleged takeover of a licensed mining concession at Apinto involving foreign nationals, contrasting it with what it called the swift prosecution and heavy sentence imposed on Chairman Wontumi.

The caucus has called on the Office of the Attorney-General to publish a comprehensive record of illegal mining prosecutions to demonstrate that the law is being applied fairly across the political divide.

It also urged Wontumi’s legal team to pursue all available legal remedies, including an appeal and an application for certiorari, while assuring NPP supporters in the Ashanti Region and beyond that it would continue to challenge the conviction through constitutional means.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, July 18, Mr Awuah said the NDC was suffering from what he described as the “curse of majority”, saying that the party’s control of Parliament had made it believe it could act without restraint.

“I want to make an appeal to my friends in the Majority, the NDC. They seem to be suffering from the curse of the majority in Parliament,” he said.

“That curse makes you think that you can do anything because you think you have the power.”

According to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP, the governing party was now maintaining the very practices it criticised when it sat in the Minority.

“That is what the NDC is suffering from. That curse is making them perpetuate the status quo and forget about the reset that they promised Ghanaians,” he stated.

Mr Awuah made the remarks while discussing the Minority’s decision to boycott a closed-door parliamentary engagement with the Governor of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), insisting there was no justification for holding the meeting in camera.

He said that the Governor’s responses were already contained in public documents, making the exclusion of the media unnecessary.

“The other paper that contains the answers is a public document, and the media can take hold of it. So if the answers were already in public documents, what’s the point of not allowing the media to be there?” he asked.

Mr Awuah also accused the NDC of departing from a precedent it established while in opposition.

He recalled that when Parliament scrutinised the construction of the Bank of Ghana’s new headquarters, then Minority MPs demanded that the Governor’s appearance before Parliament be broadcast live.

According to him, the then Minority Chief Whip, Mahama Ayariga, insisted the proceedings should be televised because the opposition believed the hearing would expose alleged wrongdoing by the previous NDC administration.

However, Mr Awuah said the Governor’s testimony ultimately confirmed that the contract had been executed transparently.

“When the Bank of Ghana Governor came, they had egg on their faces because their expectations had been disappointed. He actually came to confirm the transparency with which the whole contract was executed,” he said.

He questioned why the current Majority had rejected calls for a similarly open hearing.

“If you had already set the precedent of having a televised Committee of the Whole meeting with the Bank of Ghana, why then do you deny the Minority the request?” he asked.

Responding to suggestions that the latest hearing involved sensitive issues relating to Ghana’s foreign reserves and exchange rate interventions, Mr Awuah maintained that the information had already been made public.

“The answers had already been provided, and the answers were in a public document. Therefore, there was no secrecy that made it necessary to hold the hearing in camera. The basis was not there,” he said.

Mr Awuah also criticised comments made by Bolgatanga Central MP Isaac Adongo during the controversy, saying he appeared to have forgotten the values the NDC championed while in opposition.

“He had forgotten where he was. Not long ago, he was in opposition. He was in the Minority and had promised Ghanaians that they were going to do things differently,” he said.

He further said that parliamentary oversight should not be reduced to partisan competition between the NPP and the NDC, insisting that the Minority’s actions are intended to protect the interests of all Ghanaians.

“We only stand in the gap for the people of this country. When you are addressing them, we shouldn’t make it seem as though we are reduced to a match between the NPP and NDC. What we are asking for, we ask for on behalf of Ghanaians, and they should be addressed accordingly,” Mr Awuah said.

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According to the Chairman of the Committee, Eric Afful, the review of the report will assess institutional challenges, performance, budget utilisation and measures being implemented to improve service delivery.

Despite economic gains recorded last year, the National Development Planning Commission found persistent challenges, including youth unemployment, poor maternal health outcomes and weaknesses in public service delivery that continue to derail the country’s progress.

He said active participation by public institutions is a demonstration of their commitment to accountability.

“Active participation is an important demonstration of an institution’s commitment to these principles,” Mr. Afful stated.

He urged all ministries, departments, agencies and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to cooperate fully with the process, stressing that the exercise requires the involvement of all relevant institutions.

“The committee therefore expects every ministry, department, agency and the MMDAs to cooperate fully with this process,” he said.

Mr. Afful cautioned that institutions that fail to honour the committee’s invitation without a valid reason or refuse to provide the required information will be treated seriously.

“Failure without a cause to honour the committee’s invitation or to provide required information will be viewed seriously by the committee, as inconsistent with the standards of accountability, transparency and responsible governance that underpin the government’s reset agenda,” he warned.

The Chairman further reminded public institutions that parliamentary committees have the authority to demand accountability and compliance from those invited to appear before them.

He added that ministries that deliberately refuse to appear before the committee should expect consequences.

The committee’s findings and deliberations would help strengthen public sector governance, improve the management of public resources and ensure value for money in government programmes.

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Led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus left the chamber before Parliament proceeded to approve the bill.

Speaking to journalists after the walkout, Mr Afenyo-Markin argued that the proposed tribunal system could undermine due process and the constitutional right to a fair trial.

“This whole exercise is to create a system where people would be pronounced guilty even before their case is properly determined. There is no established procedure for ensuring fairness, and it is not only the Minority that is complaining,” he said.

He maintained that opposition to the bill goes beyond Parliament, citing organised labour’s rejection of the proposed legislation.

“Today, organised labour has come out loudly to re-echo its position on this matter, that we don’t need a tribunal system in our country anymore.”

The Minority Leader also referenced Ghana’s experience with tribunals during the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) era, arguing that the past should serve as a warning against reintroducing the system.

“Tribunal system, we know what happened in the PNDC era where people were targeted, assets were seized and those people who claimed they were tribunal members enriched themselves. We know that record of the NDC, their predecessor PNDC,” he stated.

Mr Afenyo-Markin said the Minority decided to leave the chamber because it had become clear that the Majority was determined to pass the bill regardless of concerns raised.

“So we, the Minority, have left the chamber because the Majority Leader decided to shut the door.”

He stressed that Parliament must always allow room for dialogue, particularly on legislation with constitutional implications.

“In Parliament, we believe that in all situations of disagreement, there must be a window to discuss, to raise the concerns. But once the Majority Leader makes a strong pronouncement that whatever the case, they will not listen, they will use their numbers to pass the bill, then there was no point again,” he said.

He added: “Every other effort will be rendered obnoxious. Every other effort by us will be rendered nocturnal.”

The Minority Leader further alleged that the Majority initially lacked the required numbers to proceed and requested a suspension of proceedings to mobilise its members.

“You recall that earlier in the day when we raised this issue, the Majority Leader, realising that he didn’t have the numbers, immediately called for suspension of the House.”

According to him, even after Parliament resumed several hours later, the Majority still fell short of the numbers it claimed.

“So he used the five hours to marshal his members into the chamber. Even so, those present were not even up to 115. They were 113.”

He challenged the media to independently verify the figures.

“We the Minority counted them. They were not up to. Yet those who counted claim that the NDC members were more than that. You are the media. You can get in and do your own check to validate what we are saying. We tell you the truth. We will not say anything outside of the truth.”

Mr Afenyo-Markin concluded by accusing the Majority of refusing to entertain dissenting views.

“So it is clear that the ‘Yentie Obiaa’ syndrome has set in, in this exercise.”

Despite the Minority’s protest, Parliament went ahead to pass the Tribunals Bill, 2026, which seeks to establish a new legal framework for the constitution, composition, jurisdiction and administration of tribunals under Article 126 of the 1992 Constitution.

The government says the legislation will modernise the tribunal system, improve access to justice and provide specialised adjudication for designated categories of cases.

However, sections of the legal fraternity, organised labour and governance advocates have called for greater caution, arguing that any tribunal regime must fully protect constitutional guarantees of judicial independence, due process and fair hearing.

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The Bill was passed after its third reading in accordance with Parliament’s Standing Orders and will now be forwarded to President John Dramani Mahama for assent before it becomes law.

The legislation, which was laid before Parliament earlier this year by the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr Dominic Ayine, seeks to improve access to justice, reduce the growing backlog of court cases, and restore tribunals with enhanced constitutional safeguards and stronger oversight mechanisms.

After its introduction, the Bill was referred to Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee and the Judiciary Committee for detailed consideration before being returned to the House for debate and approval.

With Parliament’s approval, the Tribunals Bill, 2026, is now one step closer to becoming law, subject to presidential assent.

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His comments come after the Minority Caucus walked out of Parliament on Wednesday following the decision by the Majority not to allow media coverage of the BoG Governor’s responses to urgent questions before the House.

According to the Amenfi West Member of Parliament, the usual practice is for the Committee of the Whole, made up of all Members of Parliament and leadership, to meet and decide whether proceedings involving such matters should be opened to the media.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Afful said the Minority was expected to participate in the discussion before the final decision was taken.

“What we usually do is the Committee of the Whole. All the MPs and leadership will meet, and then we decide whether or not the media coverage should be allowed,” he explained.

He said the Minority’s decision to leave the chamber after the gallery was cleared did not prevent the Majority from reaching a decision.

“The Minority was supposed to be there for us to take that decision, but when we cleared the gallery, the Minority walked out,” he stated.

“That did not mean the Majority could not take a decision. We took the decision that the media would not be present,” he added.

The decision to restrict media access during the BoG Governor’s appearance sparked debate among lawmakers and members of the public, with the Minority accusing the Majority of preventing transparency and limiting public scrutiny.

However, Mr. Afful maintained that Parliament acted within its rules and that the decision was not intended to conceal information from Ghanaians.

He earlier reiterated that the Bank of Ghana remains an independent institution and stressed the need for accountability while respecting its legal framework.

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The Amenfi West Member of Parliament (MP) in an interview on Adom FM Dwaso Nsem said the Bank of Ghana is an independent institution and does not operate as a government ministry or agency, although the government remains a stakeholder.

His comments follow controversy in Parliament on Wednesday after the Minority Caucus staged a walkout when the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Asiama, appeared before the House.

The Minority had raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding the Governor’s appearance and demanded greater accountability from the central bank.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Afful said Parliament’s Standing Orders allow ministers and heads of statutory bodies to appear before the House to answer questions, but noted that the structure of the Bank of Ghana requires a different approach because of its independence.

“We are not hiding anything from the media or from Ghanaians regarding the operations of the Bank of Ghana. The BoG is an independent body. It is not under government, even though government is a stakeholder,” he said.

According to him, the central bank is not an institution that the government can directly control or intervene in its operations.

“It is not a ministry or an institution where the government is directly involved for government to come and protect the bank. We need to be truthful with Ghanaians,” he added.

Mr. Afful explained that Parliament has the authority to engage statutory bodies, but the process of holding the Bank of Ghana accountable must take into consideration its legal independence.

“The parliamentary standing orders allow ministers and statutory bodies to appear and answer questions. But the case of the Bank of Ghana is different because it is not a direct governmental appointee,” he stated.

The comments come amid ongoing debate over parliamentary oversight of the central bank, with the Majority maintaining that the BoG must be allowed to operate independently while still being accountable to the Ghanaian public.

The Minority, however, has insisted that the Bank of Ghana must be subjected to stronger parliamentary scrutiny, particularly on issues concerning its management and financial decisions.

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He said the rising cost of political participation was distorting democracy, weakening public trust and creating a political system in which financial strength, rather than ideas and commitment to public service, could determine who gained political power.

“When money becomes the principal determinant of political success, democracy risks becoming inaccessible to ordinary citizens.

“Public office is then viewed less as a public trust and more as an investment to recover it. Political competition shifts from a campus of ideas and services to a contest of financial power,” Mr Bagbin said.

The Speaker made the remarks at the opening of the three-day High-Level Regional Convening on the Financialisation of Politics in Africa in Accra yesterday.

The meeting brought together senior government officials, anti-corruption institutions, electoral bodies, civil society organisations, researchers, development partners and governance practitioners to discuss the growing influence of money in African politics and explore practical reforms.

It is being convened by the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption, the Community of Practice on Political Finance in Africa, the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development, Open Society Foundations and Transparency International Ghana.

It seeks to raise public and policy attention to the impact of money on politics and translate research on political financing into actionable policy reforms.

Global threat

Mr Bagbin said the challenge was not peculiar to Ghana or Africa but had become a global threat to democratic governance.

“Across Africa and indeed the world, democracy is under increasing pressure. As a matter of fact, democracy is backsliding,” he said.

He cited declining public trust, illicit financial flows, state capture, opaque campaign financing and the increasing commercialisation of political competition as some of the threats confronting democratic institutions.

“Ultimately, citizens lose confidence in democratic institutions and become increasingly disengaged from the political process,” the Speaker said.

Drawing on his political experience since 1992, Mr Bagbin said the cost of participating in elections had risen significantly over the years.

He recalled financing much of his early political campaign from his personal savings and later relying on his wife’s savings when his resources became inadequate.

“That was the cost of deciding to go to serve my people,” he said.

Mr Bagbin said the realities of political financing were often more complicated than public discussions suggested, particularly because politicians faced financial demands from constituents and communities.

“You don’t go to the House of Chiefs with empty hands.

And when you visit your constituency and you don’t fight for their education, and you don’t fight for their health, and you don’t give money to the poor, and the rest, they say they haven’t seen you,” he added.

The Speaker cautioned against branding politics itself as inherently corrupt, insisting that the conduct of individuals was the real problem.

“It’s not a dirty game. It’s the people playing politics that are dirty,” he said.

Time to act

Mr Bagbin said decades of conferences and discussions on corruption must now give way to practical action.

“I believe this is the time to act. It’s not just about passing laws. It’s not just about resolutions.

“It’s about appreciating on a daily basis what we see is right, what we see is honest, what we see is clean, what we see is integrity.

This must be put into practice,” he added.

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The approval paves the way for the Ministry of Finance to renew the head lease with the Wardens and Commonalty of the Mystery of Mercers ahead of the expiration of the current lease in September 2027.

Presenting the agreement to Parliament, Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, described Regina House as one of Ghana’s most valuable overseas assets, noting that it has been under the country’s control since 1937.

He said the property, located in the heart of London’s financial district, has served as the headquarters of the Ghana International Bank for decades and remains an important symbol of Ghana’s presence in the United Kingdom.

According to him, the building currently generates about £1.4 million in rental income annually, with government intending to use the revenue to repay the cost of the lease while supporting the continued operations of the bank.

“This is one of the assets that the colonial administration handed over to us. We have held the property for almost a century now, from 1937. It is due to expire in 2027, and we believe it is important for us to renew the lease for Ghana International Bank to deepen our financial services in the UK,” he said.

Mr Nyarko Ampem added that rental income generated from tenants occupying sections of the building would also be accumulated to acquire other strategic properties in the United Kingdom to support Ghana’s diplomatic and commercial interests.

The agreement was approved following the adoption of a report by Parliament’s committee responsible for examining the transaction.

The decision comes amid growing public interest in the future of Regina House, with concerns raised over the condition of parts of the building and calls for refurbishment works to preserve its long-term value.

There have also been proposals for portions of the property not occupied by Ghana International Bank to be leased to commercial tenants to generate additional revenue.

Supporters of the agreement say the lease extension safeguards one of Ghana’s most strategic assets abroad while providing long-term certainty for the operations of Ghana International Bank and creating opportunities for future redevelopment and commercial use.

The approval authorises the government to proceed with the execution of the lease extension in accordance with the relevant legal and financial requirements.

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In a statement issued on Monday, July 14, Parliament extended its deepest condolences to the Gbewaa Palace, the Dagbon Traditional Council, the Royal Family and the people of Dagbon following the death of the 41st Overlord of Dagbon and President of the Northern Regional House of Chiefs.

Parliament noted that the late Yaa-Naa ascended the Yendi Skin on January 18, 2019, after a historic peace process that brought an end to years of division between the Abudu and Andani royal gates over the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute.

According to the statement, his enskinment ushered in a period of reconciliation, healing and the restoration of traditional authority in Dagbon.

“His enskinment brought to an end one of Ghana’s most protracted and painful chieftaincy disputes, and under his reign, Dagbon experienced a period widely regarded as one of reconciliation, healing and the restoration of traditional authority,” Parliament stated.

Parliament further described the late King as a true statesman whose leadership exemplified dialogue, unity and reconciliation, adding that his commitment to peace strengthened not only the Dagbon Kingdom but also Ghana’s chieftaincy institution and national cohesion.

The House also urged the people of Dagbon to remain united and honour the late King’s legacy by preserving the peace he championed throughout his reign.

Echoing an appeal by the Gbewaa Palace, Parliament called on mourners to avoid conflict during the period of mourning.

“Let there be no conflict in our grief; let there be no discord in our mourning,” the statement said.

Parliament concluded by praying for strength for the Royal Family, traditional leaders, the people of Dagbon and all Ghanaians mourning the late monarch, while wishing him eternal rest.

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She said the role of the Public Accounts Committee is not to shame public institutions but to help build stronger systems that improve service delivery and promote national development.

Abena Osei Asare made the remarks at the launch of the Centre for Local Governance Advocacy’s 3rd Edition of the Public Financial Management Compliance League Table (PFMCLT) 2025 Assessment Report in Accra.

The report recognised ten Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) for their outstanding performance in public financial management. Bia East District Assembly emerged as the overall best-performing district, followed by Nkwanta South District Assembly in second place and Asokwa Municipal Assembly in third place.

Speaking at the event, Abena Osei Asare emphasised the importance of prudent management of public resources in driving national development.

“The work of the Public Accounts Committee is not intended to embarrass any institution. Our responsibility is to strengthen our public institutions by promoting accountability and ensuring that public resources are managed efficiently for the benefit of the Ghanaian people,” she said.

She further stressed that Parliament would continue to exercise its constitutional oversight mandate to ensure public institutions remain accountable.

“Parliament will continue to support and strengthen accountability in the public sector because strong institutions and sound financial management are essential to improving service delivery and accelerating national development,” she added.

Also speaking at the event, European Union Representative Musah Mohammed reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote transparency and prudent public financial management in Ghana.

He said effective management of public funds is critical to building public trust and strengthening local governance.

“Transparent and accountable management of public resources builds citizens’ confidence in local government institutions and ensures that development efforts respond to the needs of communities,” he said.

Mr Mohammed added that the European Union remains committed to partnering with stakeholders to improve governance and strengthen accountability mechanisms across the country.

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The new legislation establishes a National Community Service Secretariat and creates the legal framework for implementing non-custodial sentencing, a move aimed at easing congestion in Ghana’s prisons and promoting the rehabilitation of offenders.

The Bill was laid before Parliament by the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka, on March 4, 2026, in accordance with Article 106(1) of the 1992 Constitution. It was subsequently referred to Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee for scrutiny before its approval.

According to the committee’s report, Ghana’s criminal justice system has traditionally depended heavily on custodial sentences, resulting in persistent overcrowding in correctional facilities.

The committee noted that the situation has placed considerable pressure on the Ghana Prisons Service while increasing government expenditure on inmate feeding, healthcare, maintenance and prison infrastructure.

It explained that the new law forms part of wider criminal justice reforms being pursued by the Ministry of the Interior to expand the use of non-custodial sentencing options.

The legislation is expected to give courts greater flexibility to impose community service instead of prison sentences for minor and specified offences, while promoting offender rehabilitation, reducing repeat offending and supporting the reintegration of offenders into society.

The committee further indicated that efforts to establish a structured non-custodial sentencing system date back to 2014, when the Ministry of the Interior, with support from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), began developing a national policy on non-custodial sentencing.

The Community Service Act also provides legal backing for existing non-custodial sentencing provisions under the Criminal and Other Offences (Procedure) Act, 1960 (Act 30), and the Interpretation Act, 2009 (Act 792).

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The Bill, which has undergone its first reading, seeks to operationalise Article 126 of the 1992 Constitution, which provides for tribunals within Ghana’s judicial system but has remained largely inactive over the years.

If passed, the legislation will establish a reformed tribunal system to operate alongside the conventional courts, backed by constitutional safeguards, oversight mechanisms, and protections for due process and fundamental human rights.

According to the Attorney-General, the proposed reforms are intended to address gaps in the existing legal framework, reduce the growing backlog of cases in the courts, and broaden access to justice while encouraging greater citizen participation in adjudication processes.

The Bill proposes a two-tier tribunal structure comprising Regional Tribunals and District Tribunals, both of which will operate under the judiciary, supervised by the Judicial Council and a proposed Tribunal Oversight Committee.

Under the proposed law, Regional Tribunals will exercise concurrent original jurisdiction with the High Court over specified criminal matters, including economic crimes, narcotics offences, tax-related offences, customs violations, and cases involving loss of state funds or property.

District Tribunals, on the other hand, will have concurrent jurisdiction with Circuit Courts over selected criminal matters. However, the Bill excludes offences such as treason, capital offences, and other cases triable on indictment.

The proposed legislation also excludes matters relating to constitutional interpretation under Article 130, human rights violations, and any other cases specifically excluded by law.

It further outlines guiding principles for the operation of the tribunals, including fairness, transparency, efficiency, independence, and respect for fundamental human rights. Decisions of the tribunals will also be subject to appellate review.

The Bill additionally provides for the appointment, discipline, retirement, and removal of tribunal members, as well as a code of conduct to regulate their operations.

Dr Ayine said the proposed reforms are designed to address historical concerns surrounding public tribunals by establishing a modern system firmly anchored in constitutional safeguards, due process, and judicial accountability.

Following its first reading, the Bill has been referred to Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Judiciary Committees for further consideration.

The referral comes after the Attorney-General last week met with the joint committee to deliberate on the proposed legislation ahead of its formal presentation to the House.

The legislation criminalises piracy, armed robbery at sea and related offences while domesticating key provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 1988 Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Maritime Navigation, together with its related protocols.

According to the report of the parliamentary committee that considered the Bill, the new law establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the prevention, investigation, prosecution and punishment of maritime offences.

The committee said the legislation also aligns Ghana’s laws on piracy with Articles 100 to 105 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, bringing the country’s legal regime in line with international standards.

The report noted that maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea has escalated over the past decade, with incidents of piracy, vessel hijackings, kidnappings for ransom, armed robbery at sea and the destruction of maritime property posing serious threats to regional trade and security.

It said the absence of a dedicated legal framework had made it difficult for law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute offenders effectively.

“The absence of a dedicated legal framework on maritime offences in Ghana creates enforcement and prosecutorial challenges in dealing with piracy and related crimes. The enactment of this Bill will, therefore, provide the necessary legal basis for the investigation, arrest, prosecution and punishment of offenders,” the committee stated.

The committee further noted that the legislation will strengthen Ghana’s ambition of becoming a maritime hub in the Gulf of Guinea by enhancing trade security and improving state port control.

According to the report, the law will also boost investor confidence, protect Ghana’s territorial waters and maritime economy, and empower security agencies to respond more effectively to maritime crime.

“Most importantly, the Bill empowers security agencies to act decisively, thereby ensuring that offenders face justice while safeguarding the livelihoods of our seafarers,” the committee added.

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Providing an update to Parliament on Tuesday, June 30, the Minister said 3,882 people had been directly impacted by the disaster, as emergency response teams continue search, rescue and recovery operations in the worst-hit communities.

“As of this morning, seven persons are still missing. I have been at the Finance Committee for the past three hours, and I do not know whether many more have been found, but as of this morning, it is still seven, and 12 people are dead,” he told the House.

The torrential rainfall, described by authorities as one of the heaviest to hit Accra in recent years, triggered widespread flooding across parts of the Greater Accra Region and other regions.

Several communities, including Alajo, Adabraka, Circle, Kaneshie, Weija, Tse Addo, Ofankor, Pantang, Ashongman Estates and parts of the Tema Metropolis, were inundated, with floodwaters submerging homes and businesses, stranding motorists and disrupting transport services.

The floods also damaged public infrastructure, displaced hundreds of residents and brought economic activity to a standstill in many parts of the capital.

Mr Mohammed-Mubarak conveyed the government’s condolences to families who lost loved ones and assured Parliament that efforts were underway to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

He said the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ghana Armed Forces, the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service, together with other emergency response agencies, remain on the ground conducting rescue operations, assessing damage and providing relief to displaced persons.

According to the Minister, government is coordinating interventions to supply victims with emergency relief items while also considering longer-term measures to reduce the impact of recurring floods in the capital.

Monday’s heavy rains forced the closure of major roads across Accra, disrupted public transport, led some tertiary institutions to suspend lectures and postpone examinations, and caused extensive damage to property and livelihoods.

Authorities have urged residents to remain alert, avoid flood-prone areas and comply with safety directives as recovery efforts continue.

Contributing to a statement on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 23, Mr. Ayariga stressed the need for deliberate national policies to ensure greater participation of PWDs in the formal workforce.

He expressed concern over the number of persons with disabilities who are forced to rely on street begging for survival, describing the situation as unacceptable.

“We as a country must consider it a major national embarrassment when our colleagues have to earn their living at traffic lights begging,” he said.

According to the Majority Leader, Parliament should consider passing legislation that would require both public and private institutions to reserve a percentage of employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, similar to ongoing efforts to promote gender representation.

“As a Parliament, we must enact legislation which will compel a quota in every factory, organisation and institution. Just as we are enacting quotas for gender, we must also enact quotas for disabled persons,” he stated.

Mr. Ayariga rejected the notion that persons with disabilities lack the capacity to contribute meaningfully to the workforce, insisting that many possess the qualifications and skills needed to excel in various sectors.

“Invariably, there is no way you won’t find a disabled person who is qualified on his or her own to be employed in a factory,” he added.

Beyond employment, he also urged political parties to adopt measures that would increase the participation of persons with disabilities in elective politics.

He encouraged political parties to create internal quotas to support qualified PWDs to contest parliamentary elections and contribute to national decision-making.

“Political parties as well must make an effort to field a number of disabled persons so that they can also come to Parliament,” he said.

Mr. Ayariga maintained that improving access to employment and political representation for persons with disabilities would help build a more inclusive society and ensure equal opportunities for all citizens to contribute to national development.

The development follows the decision by Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei to reject her nomination to replace Mr Afenyo-Markin, citing a lack of consultation and alleged procedural irregularities in the selection process.

The issue stems from a petition filed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, which led Speaker Alban Bagbin to refer Mr Afenyo-Markin to the Privileges Committee over allegations that he had defied a parliamentary resolution removing him from Ghana’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament.

The controversy deepened after the ECOWAS Parliament reportedly declined to swear in Ghana’s reconstituted delegation when Mr Afenyo-Markin, who currently serves as the Third Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, participated in proceedings in Port Harcourt despite having been replaced.

Reports indicate that the impasse was eventually resolved after Ghana threatened to withdraw from the regional legislative body.

As part of the reconstitution, Parliament is expected to submit a new list of representatives to the ECOWAS Parliament.

The proposed delegation will be led by George Kweku Ricketts-Hagan and will include Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, Laadi Ayii Ayamba, Eric Afful, Dominic Napare, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi and Dr Bryan Acheampong.

Millicent Yeboah Amankwah has also been nominated as an observer.

The reconstitution is expected to restore Ghana’s full participation in the affairs of the ECOWAS Parliament while bringing an end to the dispute over the country’s representation in the regional legislative body.

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In a goodwill message issued on Tuesday, June 17, the Speaker conveyed Parliament’s unwavering support for the national team, emphasizing that Ghanaians from all political, religious and ethnic backgrounds are united in backing the Black Stars.

He noted that the World Cup presents an opportunity to reaffirm national unity, stressing that the team carries the aspirations and expectations of more than 30 million Ghanaians.

Mr Bagbin encouraged the players to approach the tournament with confidence and courage, describing the Black Stars as a symbol of the nation’s pride, hope and resilience over the years.

He called on the squad to wear the national colours with honour, remain united on the field and give their all in every match, assuring them of the country’s full support throughout the competition.

“As Speaker of Parliament, I urge you to play with passion, confidence and belief. Let the world see the talent, discipline and character that makes Ghana a respected football nation,” he said in the message.

The Speaker further urged the players to embrace the challenge and opportunity that comes with competing on football’s biggest stage, describing the World Cup as a platform for dreamers who are prepared to seize their moment.

Expressing confidence in the team’s ability to make the nation proud, he said a strong performance could inspire a new generation of Ghanaians.

He concluded by wishing the Black Stars success in their opening fixture and throughout the tournament as they seek to make a positive start to their World Cup journey.

The praise came during proceedings on the floor of Parliament, where Minority Chief Whip Ahmed Ibrahim Shaib applauded the minister’s style of governance and dedication to duty.

According to him, Mr. Agbodza’s performance speaks for itself and does not require recognition through awards.

“He’s not paying those people who go around giving awards to ministers and taking money. He understands politics, he understands proper man management, and he understands governance. That is why he’s called Governs,” he remarked.

His comments received support from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who stressed the need to acknowledge good performance irrespective of political differences.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin noted that although Parliament has a responsibility to scrutinise and hold ministers accountable, it must also recognise hard work and effective leadership where necessary.

“We are here as political actors, Minority and Majority, but it is all for the good of democracy. When a man does well, we must commend him,” he said.

“Today, I’m commending you. When I take you on, don’t take it personally. Today is not that day,” he added, drawing laughter in the House.

The Minority Leader particularly highlighted the Roads Minister’s conduct during recent field inspections, describing his engagement with projects and stakeholders as energetic and results-oriented.

“You’ve done well with the field visit. I watched you and you did it with passion. That is the right thing to do,” he stated.

He also questioned whether institutions that present awards to ministers adequately assess performance across government.

“Unfortunately, you were not awarded. I don’t know whether those institutions that award ministers are really looking at the performance of all ministers,” he said.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin further encouraged the Roads Minister to sustain efforts to address concerns in the sector, especially the payment of contractors, which he described as essential to maintaining momentum on road infrastructure projects nationwide.

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He consequently urged the public to appreciate the role of the legislature in preserving democratic governance.

“You cannot have a different political party in the Executive.The Executive is either fully National Democratic Congress (NDC) or fully New Patriotic Party (NPP). But in the Parliament, you can have all the different political parties which have won seats,” the Majority Leader explained.

Throwing the weight of the Majority Caucus in Parliament behind the new educational series, “Parliament and You”, Mr Ayariga urged young people to always choose democracy over any form of governance, stressing that “Parliament is really the place where democracy can be seen in action”, framing democracy as basically about different shades of opinions being expressed, heard and factored into national decisions.

Event
“Parliament and You” is a partnership initiative between Parliament and the Junior Graphic to offer a weekly child-friendly publication of articles and stories in the Junior Graphic for approximately 50,000 children between the ages of 10 and 17.

It will simplify parliamentary concepts, functions and procedures through engaging age-appropriate content, including features, stories, quizzes, puzzles, illustrations and competitions.

The launch in Parliament House attracted the leadership of the House, the Parliamentary Service Staff, schoolchildren and officials of the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL).

Notable among the dignitaries were the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor; the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George; the Clerk-to-Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror; the Managing Director of GCGL, Ato Afful; the Editor, Graphic, Theophilus Yartey, and the Assistant Editor of Junior Graphic, Eugenia Asare Tandoh.

Context
Mr Ayariga took the schoolchildren through the various republics the country had experienced, and what happened when the military juntas disrupted them and took control.

Providing basis for the defence of democracy, Mr Ayariga said during military takeovers, the soldiers abolished parliament (the legislature) and assumed the reins of government.

“When they form a military government, the soldiers who assume the governance step into the shoes of the executive.They normally leave the judges, that is the judiciary, but at all times, they always shut down the parliament.”

“And then they rule by decrees. That is to say, they pass the laws themselves without a parliament. So, we experienced that in 1966,” he explained, citing the other military juntas the country had experienced.

Mr Ayariga, therefore, stressed that constitutional democracy was the only system where all shades of views were accommodated in parliament.

“Ghana has been through different phases in terms of what we call our constitutional development. When we say constitutional development, we are simply talking about how we are governed,” he explained.

Supporting the educational programme, ‘Parliament and You’, Mr Ayariga stated: “It has become necessary for parliament, as established, to seek to rally the population to stand firmly behind it so that in future if anybody attempts to overthrow the government and to shut down parliament, the people will stand behind their parliament.

Public understanding
Mr Ayariga said building public understanding of Parliament was essential to ensuring that future generations remained committed to protecting democratic institutions.

He added that democracy thrived when opposing perspectives were allowed to be expressed freely and factored into the decision-making process.

“The idea of democracy is that let them say whatever they want to say.

When you finish, you put the matter to a vote,” he stated.

The Majority Leader further stated that parliamentary deliberations often led to improvements in proposed measures, as members were willing to incorporate worthwhile suggestions regardless of where they originated.

Invest in education
Mr Ayariga further encouraged students to take advantage of opportunities to visit Parliament, observe proceedings and deepen their understanding of how the institution functioned.

He expressed support for programmes that promoted civic participation among young people, including essay-writing competitions and educational activities centred on Parliament.

Mr Ayariga added that similar initiatives in other jurisdictions had successfully encouraged young people to establish model parliaments in schools and communities as a practical means of learning about democratic governance.

“I also want to commend the Clerk and his team for the partnership that you are forging between Parliament and Junior Graphic so that we can create space there for young people to write about Parliament and, in the process, also have Parliament covered so that their colleagues, other young people, can read and appreciate the happenings in Parliament,” he said

Donations
The Majority Leader announced a contribution of GH¢200,000 from his office towards the initiative to support the partnership between Parliament and Junior Graphic.

The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, also donated GH¢100,000 in support of the initiative.

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, donated 25 laptops to support the ‘Parliament and You’ educational series published in the Junior Graphic.

He said the laptops would be awarded to winners of the quarterly quizzes, which would be organised to test students’ knowledge of the weekly educational series.

According to the caucus, the proposed investigation is intended to address growing public concerns about the basis for the awards, the criteria used in selecting recipients, and whether any payments were made by awardees to secure recognition.

Speaking to Adom News, Opposition spokesperson on Economy and Development, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, said the Minority wants Parliament to establish the facts surrounding the awards and determine whether any monies exchanged hands in the process.

The caucus is also seeking clarity on whether such payments, if any, came from public resources or private funds.

The move follows public debate over an awards event at which a number of ministers and other government appointees were recognised, sparking criticism from sections of the public and even some members of government over the appropriateness of public officials receiving such honours while in office.

The controversy prompted President John Dramani Mahama to issue a directive barring ministers, deputy ministers, presidential staffers, chief executive officers of state institutions and other political appointees from accepting private awards without prior approval from the Office of the President.

The directive was aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and public confidence in government, amid concerns that some award schemes could create perceptions of conflict of interest or undermine public trust.

Meanwhile, the Minority is also preparing to move another motion relating to the reconsideration of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.

The development follows comments by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, who raised concerns about procedural irregularities and certain provisions in the bill. The Speaker subsequently indicated that the legislation should be reconsidered before being transmitted to the Executive.

His position differs from that of some members of the Majority, who maintain that the bill has already been passed by Parliament and only requires transmission for further action.

The latest developments set the stage for renewed debate in Parliament as lawmakers prepare to examine both the controversial awards scheme and the future of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.

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According to him, the House retains the authority to move a motion to rescind or review its earlier decision on the Bill. His remarks follow the passage of the legislation, after which he has called for further reconsideration.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the Supreme Court 150th Anniversary Planning Committee on Thursday, June 11, Mr Bagbin dismissed suggestions that Parliament is functus officio and therefore unable to revisit the matter.

“The recent debate where some lawyers came out strongly to say that by the Constitution, once a law is passed on the floor, Parliament is functus officio. It’s not the law,” he said.

He explained that the legislative process is not fully concluded until the Bill is submitted to the President for assent, adding that Parliament still has room to review its decisions.

“Because we have what we call a passage process before you send it to the President for assent. And that process gives the opportunity for Parliament to reflect on what it has passed,” he stated.

Mr Bagbin further noted that Parliament often revisits legislation to correct inconsistencies or errors, describing it as part of a “reconsideration stage.”

“And on many occasions, we usually identify some inconsistencies or errors. Then we go back to the House… we use a motion of rescission to rescind the decision of having read the Bill a third time,” he explained.

He stressed that it is therefore not correct to argue that Parliament cannot revisit a Bill once it has been passed.

His comments come after he directed Parliament to reconsider the already passed Bill following consultations with leadership aimed at building broader consensus on the legislation.

Earlier, on Tuesday, June 2, the Speaker called for further engagement between the Majority and Minority leadership, expressing concern about the process that led to the Bill’s passage.

Mr Bagbin said he was surprised the Bill was fully passed on Friday, May 29, noting that he had expected Parliament to proceed only to the consideration stage.

He maintained that due to its sensitivity and the national debate surrounding it, the Bill requires wider consultation and consensus among stakeholders.

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According to Mr. Boamah, Parliament should not have to rely on social media posts for updates on issues that could have significant implications for Ghana’s diplomatic relations and the welfare of its citizens abroad.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, June 10, the lawmaker argued that the usual parliamentary procedures for obtaining responses from ministers are often too slow to address urgent matters.

He stressed the need for the Foreign Affairs Minister to appear before the House and provide lawmakers with firsthand information on the situation involving Ghanaians in South Africa.

“We do not want to wait until an unfortunate incident occurs or until diplomatic relations between Ghana and South Africa are threatened before action is taken,” he cautioned.

Mr. Boamah also criticised what he described as the minister’s preference for communicating through social media, insisting that Parliament deserves direct engagement on such critical issues.

“If the minister can come to Parliament to brief us on visa-related matters and other issues, then he should also come to the floor of the House to address this matter. He should stop tweeting and posting; we are the representatives of the people,” he said.

The Okaikwei Central MP further noted that lawmakers have a responsibility to represent the interests of their constituents, including those residing outside the country.

He explained that a parliamentary briefing would enable MPs to engage affected constituents and contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at resolving any challenges they may be facing.

“We have constituents in South Africa, and as their representatives, we must be informed so that we can support efforts to address the issues confronting them,” he added.

He stated: “Order 172 sub-order one also states and I quote: where a bill has passed through the consideration stage, the third reading shall not be taken until at least one sitting day has elapsed, unquote. Honourable Members, while the House possesses the power to, under Order 3, suspend any standing order with the leave of the House, it did not do so this time.”

The record of proceedings of Friday May 29, 2026, however, does not support this claim.

After the last consideration with respect to the long title of the bill, the presiding Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor announced an end to the consideration stage of the bill. The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga rose to his feet and called on Speaker to take item 41 on the order paper. With the acceptance of Speaker, Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor rose and moved the motion…

Dafeamekpor: “Speaker, I rise to move that notwithstanding the provision of order 172 rule one of the standing orders which requires that when a bill has passed through the consideration stage, the third reading thereof, shall not be taken until at least one sitting day has elapsed, the motion for the third reading of the human sexual rights and family values bill 2025 may be moved today. Mr. Speaker, I so move.”

Ahiafor: “Honourable Members, motion ably moved. Any second?”

Ayariga: “I rise to second the motion.”

Ahiafor: “Honourable Members, motion move and seconded. It is for the consideration of the House. This being a procedural motion, I’ll put the question; as many as are in favor say aye…, those against say no…”

Members responded aye, and went silent to the no!

Speaker Ahiafor proceeded to declare that “definitely the ayes have it, the motion is carried,”

This allowed for the House to proceed with a third reading of the bill, and subsequent passage on the same day.

It is clear, in the face of this record, that the House suspend Order 172 (1) of the Standing Orders of Parliament before passing the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025, also known as the anti-LGBTQI+ Bill

Speaker Alban Bagbin’s claim is therefore, False!

Already, leading members on the side of the Majority, including the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, and Co-Sponsor of the bill, Samuel Nartey George, have indicated their rejection of the appeal from the Speaker to re-consider the bill, for a second passage.

He argued that such a measure lacks public benefit and is unlikely to gain support from lawmakers.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Thursday, June 4, Mr. Nyindam said the proposal, announced by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, would struggle to pass parliamentary scrutiny.

“Such a bill will not come to Parliament. It will not even come to Parliament because if it comes to Parliament, it may not even fly,” he said.

Pressed on why he believed the proposal would fail despite the government’s majority in Parliament, the Kpandai MP said:

“It won’t fly because it doesn’t make sense to anybody at all, even those in the Majority. The fact that they have the majority doesn’t mean they are going to use their majority to do anything just like that,” he stated.

The comments follow remarks by Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George at the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty and Values, where he disclosed that government was preparing a policy proposal that would require age and identity verification before users could access pornographic websites.

According to the minister, the proposal is aimed at shielding children from exposure to explicit online content and mirrors measures being implemented in other jurisdictions.

However, Mr. Nyindam questioned the necessity of introducing legislation to regulate the viewing habits of consenting adults.

He further challenged proponents of the proposal to demonstrate its benefits to ordinary citizens.

“If some adults decide that they want to watch a pornographic show, must it be a headache for Parliament to pass a law that says you must identify yourself with your ID card?” he asked.

While stressing that he supports efforts to protect children from harmful online content, Mr. Nyindam maintained that government’s focus should be directed toward more pressing national concerns.

The lawmaker urged the Communications Ministry to concentrate on reducing data costs, improving digital access, and delivering on key technology and innovation promises made to Ghanaians.

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According to the Minority, Ghana has a long-standing record of successfully evacuating and supporting its citizens during crises abroad, and the recent repatriation efforts should not be portrayed as an extraordinary achievement.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday, June 2, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, Samuel Abu Jinapor, called on government to intensify measures to provide relief, protection and support for Ghanaians caught up in the violence.

He stressed that the focus should remain on delivering meaningful assistance to affected citizens, rather than on ceremonial displays and media attention around the evacuation exercise.

“The Minister for Foreign Affairs should focus on delivering, he should focus on the substantive work and pay less attention to public relations. Public relations is all well and good. Branding is all well and good. Communication and social media and all of the razzmatazz of welcoming people and singing are all well and good.

“But at the end of the day, what people are looking out for here in Ghana and those in South Africa is that we get the job done. As I have said repeatedly, this is not the first time Ghana has done this. Ghana is reputed to be capable of reaching out to its citizens abroad when they face difficulties,” he said.

His comments come after nearly 300 Ghanaians were evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country.

The attacks have raised concern across the continent, prompting several African governments to take steps to safeguard their citizens and facilitate the return of those seeking refuge from the violence.

His comments come after the Speaker appealed to Parliament to reconsider the controversial bill following concerns surrounding the process that led to its passage on Friday, May 29. Alban Bagbin had indicated that he expected the House to commence consideration of the bill and was surprised to learn that all stages of the legislative process had been completed.

Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, June 2, Mahama Ayariga maintained that Parliament acted within its Standing Orders and dismissed suggestions that the bill was improperly passed. According to him, the Speaker’s intervention amounts only to an appeal for reconsideration and cannot alter a decision already taken by the House.

“The Speaker is only appealing. He cannot in any way reverse what has happened. What has happened has happened. We have passed many bills the same way, and indeed there was no rule that was breached at all,” Mr. Ayariga stated.

He explained that concerns over the requirement for a bill to wait 24 hours before proceeding to the next stage were addressed through a procedural motion for the abridgement of time, a parliamentary mechanism frequently used to expedite legislative business.

“If you check the Votes and Proceedings, you will see clearly that the procedural motion was moved and allowed by the First Deputy Speaker. We abridged time and that enabled us to take the bill through the third consideration stage. So there was absolutely no breach of procedure,” he said.

Mahama Ayariga also dismissed claims that the legislation could have been withdrawn by one of its sponsors, particularly Assin South MP Rev. John Ntim Fordjour. He argued that the bill had multiple sponsors and that the decision of a single sponsor to withdraw support would not have affected its consideration by Parliament.

“The Honourable Ntim Fordjour could not have withdrawn the bill. He was not the only sponsor. There were several other sponsors, so whatever he threatened to do or not do had no effect whatsoever on the bill and its consideration by the House,” he added.

The debate follows concerns raised by Bosome Freho MP Nana Asafo-Adjei Ayeh, who indicated that none of the Minority sponsors of the bill was present when Parliament completed the final stages of the legislative process.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem morning show, Mr. Fordjour questioned the intent behind criticisms of the bill, insisting that its objective has always been clearly understood.

“Did we say we were doing laws to protect those who are announcing LGBTQ+, or to bring it down? That is the question,” he said.

He argued that concerns raised by President John Dramani Mahama regarding possible lapses in the legislative process are valid and consistent with earlier warnings raised by some lawmakers.

“So if the President says there are lapses in the law, it is true. That is what we have been talking about since we were in power and even on the floor of Parliament,” he stated.

Mr. Fordjour further claimed that even the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, expressed surprise at how the bill was passed.

“The Speaker himself said he was surprised at how the law was passed,” he added.

He urged Parliament to take its time and ensure broader consultation before any final decision is made.

“They need to take their time and listen to everyone’s views,” he said.

The MP also noted that he was a co-sponsor of the bill while his party was in power, stressing that the intention has always been to pass and assent the same agreed legislation.

“If the same bill has been presented in Parliament — the one we all know and agreed on — then it should be passed and assented to. But now there are suggestions to remove some parts and review it before it goes to the Presidency. Is that even right?” he questioned.

His comments come after Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin directed the House to revisit the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, following concerns about whether proper parliamentary procedures and bipartisan support requirements were fully met.

The Speaker had earlier described the passage of the bill as surprising, noting that he expected it to be laid for further consideration rather than fully passed at that stage. He subsequently called a crunch meeting with parliamentary leadership to clarify what transpired during the proceedings.

President John Dramani Mahama has also indicated that the bill requires further scrutiny before it can be assented to, citing procedural concerns that still need to be addressed.

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Addressing the House, the Speaker commended Ghanaians, traditional and religious leaders, civil society, and MPs for their broad support for what he described as a more comprehensive law on Human Sexual Rights and Family Values.

He also praised the bill’s bipartisan sponsors and the Subsidiary Legislation Committee that worked on it.

However, Bagbin raised concerns about the handling of the bill’s final stages.

He noted that parliamentary records show the bill went through the consideration stage, had its third reading, and was passed on the same day, May 29, 2026.

The Speaker cited Orders 171, 172, and 173 of the Standing Orders. Order 172 requires that amendments agreed during consideration be accurately captured in the bill. At the same time, Order 173 mandates the Clerk to incorporate those amendments and make the revised bill available to MPs before the third reading.

Order 171 also allows any MP to request a second consideration before the third reading, while Order 172(1) states that the third reading must wait at least one sitting day after consideration ends.

Bagbin pointed out that although Order 3 allows the House to suspend Standing Orders, that was not done in this case.

He said concerns have emerged over whether MPs received the final text with all amendments before the third reading.

Some members also complained that the adopted amendments did not match the unanimous position in the committee’s report.

“The eyes of the world are upon this Parliament regarding this bill and its LGBTQ+ implications,” the Speaker said. “Whatever we do must be capable of withstanding legal and constitutional scrutiny.”

He stressed that the bill began as a bipartisan initiative and that laws of national importance should have cross-party cooperation and strict compliance with procedure. “Procedural law is as equally important as substantive law,” he added.

Invoking Order 24B, which enjoins him to promote consensus, Bagbin appealed to MPs to revisit the third reading decision.

He said a second look at the final text would not abandon the bill but would reaffirm Parliament’s commitment to due process, constitutional fidelity, transparency, and legislative certainty.

He urged the House to handle the matter with wisdom, patriotism, and mutual respect to ensure the final law reflects both Parliament’s will and the fullest support of Ghanaians.

He added that it will help in its implementation, which is another area that will be essential in its efficacy.

The Minority, particularly co-sponsor John Ntim Fordjour, has raised concerns over the significant changes of the bill, which do not reflect the objectives and aspirations of the sponsors.

“The exemptions smuggled into the bill make the bill empty”

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Addressing journalists on Monday, June 1, Mr. Bagbin said he was surprised Parliament passed the bill on Friday, noting that he had expected lawmakers to only begin the consideration stage before his departure from the House.

According to him, several stakeholders, including development partners and the United Nations, had submitted memoranda and proposals on the legislation for consideration.

“In fact, when it was passed on Friday, it was even a surprise to me because I knew that they were going to start the consideration of the bill,” he stated.

The Speaker said he has therefore invited leaders of both the Majority and Minority caucuses to review the process and deliberate on the next steps.

He explained that building broad consensus around the legislation is critical to achieving its intended objectives.

“This is such a critical deal that we believe there must be consensus. It’s not about passing the bill; it’s about implementing it and making sure that it benefits the people,” he added.

Parliament on Friday passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, after adopting a number of amendments.

The revised legislation exempts lawyers who provide legal advice or representation to persons identified as LGBTQ+ from sanctions under the law.

Journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ-related matters in the course of their professional duties are also exempt from punishment.

Additionally, medical professionals offering surgical, psychological, or counselling services to LGBTQ+ persons will not face sanctions under the legislation.

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The caucus described the changes to the legislation as “dangerous dilutions,” insisting that Parliament should revert to the version passed in 2024.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, June 1, the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, who sponsored the Bill, said the amendments have stripped it of its effectiveness and deterrent power.

According to him, the revised Bill no longer reflects the original intentions of lawmakers and lacks the stronger enforcement measures contained in the earlier version.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour further argued that the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) had previously supported the Bill in its original form and publicly pledged to ensure its passage without major changes.

He alleged that the amendments represent a departure from that position and accused the government of failing to meet public expectations.

“These are dangerous dilutions we should not allow to go like that. We want the old Bill to come back. The old Bill is what has the teeth, the deterrence, and the teeth to bite,” he said.

Parliament on Friday, May 29, passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, with several amendments, reigniting political debate over its scope and implementation.

The amended version exempts legal practitioners from sanctions for providing legal representation or advice to persons identified as LGBTQ+. Journalists and media organisations reporting on LGBTQ+ issues as part of their professional duties are also protected under the revised law.

Additionally, medical professionals offering surgical, psychological, counselling, or related healthcare services are exempt from punishment under the Bill.

The Minority, however, maintains that these exemptions and other amendments substantially alter the intent of the original legislation and has renewed calls for its full restoration.

Speaking on PM Express on Tuesday, South Dayi MP disclosed that the committee handling the bill has completed its work and is ready to table its report before the House.

“The report will be laid on Thursday,” he said.

According to him, Parliament is prepared to move quickly through the remaining stages of the legislative process once the report is presented.

“When it’s laid, we can take the report, debate it, that’s as part of the principles for second reading, and adopt it,” he explained.

“Once it’s adopted, we move into consideration. Consideration, we can even decide to do consideration on Friday, and pass.”

The Majority Chief Whip argued that Parliament was not dealing with an entirely new piece of legislation, as the House had already approved an earlier version of the bill.

“You see, the Ghanaian family values bill, we have already passed it,” he said.

“It was a certain president who decided not to sign, so the terms of the bill are essentially what parliament had already passed.”

His comments suggest the governing party intends to speed up the legislative process rather than reopen prolonged debates on issues lawmakers believe have already been settled.

When asked whether the bill would be passed this year, Mr Dafeamekpor insisted Parliament would complete work on it within weeks.

“Yes, in a couple of weeks, not even months,” he said.

“We’ll pass it once we do the second reading on Thursday or Friday, and with consideration, we can pass it.”

He also defended plans for an expedited process, arguing that Parliament should not be accused of abusing urgency procedures, since lawmakers were already familiar with the bill’s contents.

“But when we do consideration expeditiously, let the NPP not shout that we are abusing the certificate of urgency,” he stated.

“It will be rapidly done, because we cannot be reenacting what we have already read.”

The comments are likely to intensify debate over the controversial legislation, which has drawn strong reactions both locally and internationally since it was first introduced in Parliament.

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The Majority Chief Whip disclosed the development during an interview on PM Express on JoyNews, amid growing public interest in the circumstances surrounding the legislator’s arrest and detention in Amsterdam.

According to Mr Dafeamekpor, legal representatives involved in the case have indicated that Dutch authorities are treating the matter as part of ongoing financial crime investigations.

He, however, stressed that no court has established guilt, insisting that the MP remains entitled to the presumption of innocence.

“It is an allegation, my brother,” he said during the interview, cautioning against drawing conclusions while investigations are ongoing.The comments come as the case continues to generate political and public debate in Ghana, particularly over the international nature of the allegations and the legal processes being pursued abroad.

Mr Dafeamekpor argued that allegations of fraud or money laundering, whether raised locally or internationally, must be treated strictly within the framework of due process.

“A crime is a crime. Allegation of a crime is an allegation of a crime,” he stated.

The South Dayi MP also questioned the duration of the detention, asking whether it was normal for a suspect to be held for extended periods while investigations continue.

“Do you detain somebody for this long under investigations?” he asked.

He noted that lawyers representing the MP have already filed a bail application in a Dutch court, which is expected to be heard within the week.

Mr Dafeamekpor expressed optimism that the application would be successful, allowing the MP temporary release while investigations continue.

“We think he will prevail with the bail application,” he said.

The Majority Chief Whip further disclosed that Parliament, the Foreign Affairs Ministry, and Ghana’s diplomatic mission in The Hague have been involved in coordinating support for the detained legislator.

He added that discussions had been ongoing with the MP’s family, who have been receiving updates on the legal process.

The case remains under judicial consideration in the Netherlands, with Ghanaian authorities closely monitoring developments as diplomatic and legal efforts continue.

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The call comes as Muslims across the country and the world prepare to mark one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar, commemorating sacrifice, obedience and devotion to God.

Speaking on behalf of the caucus, the Member of Parliament for Salaga, Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, emphasised the need for peaceful coexistence among all religious groups during the celebrations.

According to her, Ghana’s longstanding reputation for religious tolerance remains one of the country’s greatest strengths and must be protected at all times, especially during major religious observances.

“Ghana’s strength lies in our religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence,” she stated.

“As we celebrate, I urge all Ghanaians, particularly the Muslim Ummah, to observe Eid-ul-Adha in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect and harmony,” she added.

The caucus also extended goodwill messages to the broader Muslim community, encouraging worshippers to embrace the values of peace, unity and respect as they engage in prayers, sacrifices and festive activities across the country.

Mrs Ibrahimah further urged Muslims to reflect on the core teachings of Eid-ul-Adha, including sacrifice, obedience to God, compassion for others and generosity toward the less privileged.

“As we mark this occasion, may the lessons of sacrifice, obedience and compassion inspire all of us in Parliament and across Ghana to place the common good above self-interest and to work together for a just, united and prosperous nation,” she said.

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Speaking at the launch at Parliament House, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children and Social Protection and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Krachi West, Helen Ntosu, said the era of policymaking for underrepresented groups without their input was over.

“Citizens, especially the youth, now seek platforms to be heard in decision-making processes,” Madam Ntosu said.

“This shift reflects Ghana’s commitment to openness, transparency, and the building of public trust,” she explained.

A statement issued by the Director of Media Relations at the Parliamentary Service, David Sebastian Damoah, to the Ghana News Agency on Monday said the initiative was a partnership between the Parliament of Ghana, the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), UNICEF, and the Learning Tree Foundation.

The statement further explained that the Mini Parliament allows children to assume the roles of MPs and debate real issues in a structured educational setting.

The Chief Social Policy and Inclusion Officer at UNICEF, Paulina Sarvilahati, underscored the importance of child participation, recalling that Ghana was the first country in the world to ratify the United Nations (UN) Convention on the Rights of the Child.

“You deserve to be heard. You deserve to be protected. You deserve to go to school and achieve your dreams,” she told the young participants, urging them to be bold and confident in sharing their views.

Superintendent (Retd.) Effia Tenge, Parliament’s Director of Public Engagement, said the department had hosted over 44,000 visitors from 2023 to 2025, with more than 70 per cent being primary and junior high school pupils.

She noted that many young visitors struggled to grasp parliamentary procedures, prompting the need for a more interactive approach.

“The Mini Parliament is a practical, interactive platform that enables children to assume the roles of Members of Parliament and debate national issues affecting young people.

“The vision is to ensure that the Ghanaian of tomorrow is capable of making meaningful contributions to national progress,” she said.

At the inaugural sitting, participants debated the topic, “Responsible Use of Technology by Children,” focusing on online safety, digital responsibility, and the impact of technology on well-being.

Officials from the Cyber Security Authority also led a session on internet safety, cyberbullying, and protecting personal information.

Some officials praised the initiative as a step toward building civic responsibility from a young age.

The Divisional Head of Public Affairs, Kate Addo, commended the children for their confidence and eloquence, urging them to remain disciplined and committed to academic excellence.

Dr Rasheed Draman, ACEPA Executive Director, said early exposure to governance structures would help nurture responsible and informed citizens.

Manye Naa Badu Diaba I, Queen Mother of the Dzorwulu Abelemkpe Subdivision Stool, also encouraged the children to uphold good moral values and listen to guidance from parents and teachers.

Parliament says the Mini Parliament will continue as part of efforts to strengthen youth engagement and prepare future leaders through practical civic education.

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His comments come as Parliament continues to roll out reforms aimed at deepening public engagement, including expanded media coverage and wider digital access to parliamentary proceedings.

Speaking at a Leadership Media Briefing on Friday, May 22, 2026, as the House resumed sitting, Mr. Ayariga said Ghana’s legislature has made notable progress in openness, especially through the live broadcast of proceedings.

“In Africa, we are one of the most open parliaments. In fact, we are number two in Africa. I believe that our aspiration is that we become number one in Africa,” he said.

He also noted that discussions often arise about how parliaments are classified and compared across countries, pointing out that Ghana operates a unicameral system.

“There is an issue whether we should be put in the category of those who practise bicameral parliament. We have a unicameral Parliament. But they have number one, and we followed,” he explained.

Mr. Ayariga added that recent reforms, particularly the introduction of live television coverage of parliamentary proceedings, have significantly improved transparency and public oversight.

“Now that we have live television broadcasting of our proceedings, in the next rating they might probably review that and Ghana may climb to the top as a parliament,” he said.

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He said the law only required the security agencies to notify him of the circumstances surrounding the arrest or invitation of an MP for investigations.

Addressing the House on Thursday [May 21, 2026] at the opening of the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament, Mr Bagbin said there was a misconception that the Speaker’s approval was needed before an MP could be apprehended.

“That is not the state of the law,” he said.

Notification requirement

Mr Bagbin explained that once informed, he would assess the situation in line with the law to determine whether the MP involved enjoyed any parliamentary privilege or immunity.

“They must only inform me of incidents involving MPs as to whether they had gone on the wrong side of the law or not,” he said.

The Speaker added that the notification must include the allegations or circumstances that had led to the arrest or invitation for questioning.

Key bills before House

Touching on the business before the House, Mr Bagbin said the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, although passed by the Eighth Parliament, would have to be reintroduced and go through the full legislative process again.

He explained that as a Private Member’s Bill, due process had to be followed.

“It is taking time because we have to abide by the law,” he said.

On the Property Rights of Spouses Bill, 2025, the Speaker noted that the proposed legislation had been before Parliament for several years.

He said despite challenges delaying its passage, the House continued to give the bill special attention because of its importance in promoting fairness and protecting family stability.

Transition and conduct bills

Mr Bagbin also highlighted the Parliamentary Transition Bill, which has been pending before the House since 2022.

He described the bill as crucial to ensuring smooth transitions from one Parliament to another.

“We passed a law for Executive transition but left that for Parliament,” he said, recalling the tensions that characterised the election of the Speaker in 2021.

“We do not want to experience this kind of bad precedent again,” he added.

The Speaker further referenced the Parliament Bill, 2025, saying it contained provisions aimed at regulating the conduct and behaviour of MPs.

According to him, the bill would help instil ethics and decency in public office.

He urged committees and MPs to treat the various bills with seriousness and cooperation.

Minority criticism

The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, in a speech read on his behalf, criticised the government over the state of the economy and governance.

In a speech read on his behalf, he accused the administration of President John Dramani Mahama of presiding over “failure, scandal and deepening suffering”.

Mr Afenyo-Markin said the recess period had been marked by the return of power outages, popularly known as dumsor, and increasing public anxiety.

He also accused the government of targeting members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) through arrests.

Seal of global approval

The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, said the final apocalyptic collapse of Ghana’s economy witnessed in 2022, with all macroeconomic indicators “gasping for air,” was entirely avoidable.Ghana Investment Opportunities

On what had changed with the exit plan from the IMF, he said the government had opted for the Fund’s policy coordination instrument (PCI), which was a non-financial advisory and monitoring tool provided to allow Ghana to design and implement its own economic reforms without receiving a financial bailout.

“It acts essentially as a global seal of approval for the government’s fiscal arrangement.

“This master stroke in economic diplomacy could not have been achieved without the backing of the President, whose mission this time around is legacy and respect,” he said.

Rather, he said, their responsibility is to formally inform his office once such action is taken, along with the circumstances and allegations behind it.

Addressing Members of Parliament during the Second Meeting of the Second Session of Parliament on Thursday, May 21, Mr. Bagbin said there is a growing misunderstanding that security agencies must first obtain approval from the Speaker before acting against lawmakers.

He explained that his office’s role is limited to being notified, after which it may assess whether parliamentary privilege or immunity is engaged in the matter.

“It’s not for the security agents to seek my permission before arresting or inviting a Member of Parliament for questioning. It’s not. It’s for them to inform me and include the circumstances or the allegations that have created the suspicion,” he said.

Mr. Bagbin added that once notified, Parliament can then determine whether any constitutional protections apply in each specific case.

The clarification comes amid renewed public debate over the legal protections afforded to MPs in criminal investigations and the limits of parliamentary immunity.

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The MP, Ohene Kwame Frimpong, was arrested at Schiphol Airport on May 8, 2026, over allegations linked to money laundering, a development that has triggered concern within Parliament and among his constituents.

Addressing the House, Speaker Bagbin urged calm, stressing that the appropriate diplomatic and legal channels are being engaged to ensure the MP’s rights are protected.

He called on the public, especially the MP’s family and constituents, to remain patient as discussions and interventions continue.

Mr. Bagbin also cautioned Members of Parliament and the public to exercise restraint in their commentary on the matter, emphasizing the need to respect due process and legal protocols.

He further clarified what he described as misconceptions regarding the treatment of MPs under the law, noting that appropriate procedures must always be followed in matters involving lawmakers.

The Speaker’s remarks come amid growing public and parliamentary concern over the arrest, with the Minority earlier calling for stronger diplomatic intervention from government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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The Independent Member of Parliament was arrested at Schiphol Airport on May 8, 2026, over allegations linked to money laundering.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, May 21, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei said the situation carries serious reputational risks for Ghana.

She noted that while government, Parliament, and Ghana’s mission in The Hague are reportedly providing legal and consular support, more decisive action is needed.

“We understand that the government, Parliament, and our Mission in The Hague are securing legal representation and consular support. We acknowledge that support, but that is not sufficient,” she said.

According to her, the development has already begun to affect Ghana’s image on the international stage.

“This arrest has inflicted a deeply damaging blow to Ghana’s international reputation. Our country’s name has been dragged through European headlines in a manner that reflects poorly on this Parliament and the nation,” she stated.

She therefore called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Speaker to intensify engagement and provide a formal public response.

“We call on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Speaker to intensify engagement and issue a formal statement,” she added.

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His assurance comes amid calls from the Minority Caucus for a full parliamentary probe into the circumstances surrounding the agreement between the state and a company linked to a brother of the President.

The Minority, led by Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Apiagyei, has raised concerns over the deal, arguing that the circumstances and recent public interactions between the parties involved warrant closer parliamentary examination.

Responding to the concerns, Mr. Ayariga acknowledged the Minority’s position but stressed that Parliament would have the opportunity to review the agreement when it is formally presented to the House.

He assured that the process would address any concerns raised and ensure proper oversight, setting the stage for further parliamentary engagement as both sides continue to debate its implications.

The Damang Mine takeover marks a significant shift in Ghana’s mining sector, following a competitive bidding process after the expiration of Gold Fields’ lease, with Engineers and Planners emerging as the successful bidder under government supervision.

A total of four companies submitted bids before the March 31, 2026 deadline. These included Vortex Resources Mining Group, Engineers and Planners Ltd, Heath Goldfields Ltd, and Maripoma Mining Services Ltd.

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on April 7, 2026, confirmed the approval of the competitive tender outcome for the Damang Mining Lease, following recommendations by the Minerals Commission’s Tender Committee.

The Ministry disclosed that it had received the Committee’s report in line with the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012 (LI 2176). Based on the evaluation, Engineers and Planners Ltd (E&P) emerged as the successful bidder.

The Ministry stated that the recommendation had been approved, with directives issued to the Minerals Commission to take the necessary regulatory steps to implement the decision.

According to the report, E&P met all mandatory requirements outlined in the tender notice, including providing evidence of access to financing above the minimum threshold of 500 million US dollars. The company was also found to possess the technical expertise and operational experience required for the Damang mine, alongside proposals aimed at extending the mine’s lifespan beyond ten years.

The Tender Committee further indicated that E&P achieved the highest score based on the evaluation criteria, demonstrating the strongest capacity to manage the operations effectively.

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The legislative agenda is expected to cover transport, energy, justice, security, and governance reforms.

The Majority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has outlined some of the major bills expected before the House in the coming weeks.

According to him, Parliament is expected to consider the Maritime and Related Offences Bill once the Committee on Transport submits its report for its second reading.

“We expect to receive the Maritime and Related Offences Bill from the Committee on Transport because it’s been moved, the first reading done and referred to the committee to bring a report for the second reading,” he said.

He added that Parliament will also receive reports on the Road Traffic Regulations, as well as bilateral air service agreements between Ghana and countries including Luxembourg, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

On the energy front, lawmakers are expected to debate proposed amendments to laws governing the National Petroleum Authority, alongside legislation on private sector participation in electricity distribution.

Parliament is also expected to consider the proposed Nuclear Power Corporation Bill 2026 and a bill seeking to establish a Renewable Energy Authority.

“We want to establish a statutory entity that will coordinate renewable energy issues like solar and wind,” Mr. Dafeamekpor explained.

The Majority Chief Whip further disclosed that the Interior Ministry is expected to lay before Parliament a Community Service Bill aimed at reducing congestion in prisons by introducing non-custodial sentencing for minor offences.

In addition, lawmakers are expected to consider amendments to the National Identity Register law, prison parole regulations, and proposed legislation intended to improve coordination among security agencies.

“There have been complaints about activities of security operatives… so the new legislation is to take care of that,” he noted.

Parliament will also deliberate on a proposed Code of Conduct Bill aimed at strengthening rules on asset declaration and ethical standards in public office.

Meanwhile, Constitutional Instrument (CI) 47, which governs civil procedure at the High Court, is expected to undergo review to consolidate several amendments into a single legal framework.

“There have been so many amendments… we think it’s time to consolidate these issues into a new procedure code,” he added.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom TV’s Badwam, he insisted that Parliament, as the institution that embodies the sovereignty of the Ghanaian people, cannot be treated as a secondary actor in matters involving one of its own members.

“In this matter, it is Parliament that is involved because the detainee is their member. The government stands on its own, but Parliament also stands as a sovereign institution within the Republic,” he said.

Al-Wahab stressed that while law enforcement and international cooperation are important, the handling of the case must reflect Ghana’s constitutional structure.

“Parliament makes laws for the Executive. In this regard, when a Member of Parliament is involved, it is one of their own. Parliament is not just another agency, it represents the sovereignty of Ghana,” he argued.

He further questioned public interpretations surrounding the circumstances of the arrest, particularly claims of an Interpol “Red Notice” or global security alert. According to him, available information suggests otherwise.

“People are talking about FBI Red Alert and Interpol Red Notice. That is not correct. What we are seeing is a bench warrant from a United States District Court, transmitted through legal channels,” he explained.

Al-Wahab also noted that international arrests often follow structured airline and border security procedures, rather than sensationalised narratives.

He referenced the transit route through Amsterdam, explaining that such stops are common in international travel and do not necessarily indicate a coordinated global security operation.

“At Schiphol Airport, profiling is done by airline-appointed systems and international databases. That is standard procedure, it is not evidence of a worldwide manhunt,” he said.

On the question of diplomatic response, he argued that Parliament should have immediately engaged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ghana’s diplomatic missions abroad.

“If a sitting MP is arrested, Parliament should call in the Foreign Minister and activate the diplomatic corps. This is not a small matter,” he stated.

He also raised broader concerns about how international legal requests are processed, particularly those originating from U.S. district courts.

“In most of these cases, it is not Interpol-driven. It is a legal request from a district court, processed through mutual agreements. It is not automatic global policing,” he added.

Al-Wahab concluded by urging caution in public discourse, warning that misinterpretations of international legal processes can inflame tensions and mislead citizens.

“The world has protocols. We must understand them before we conclude. This is not just a legal matter, it is also a matter of sovereignty and diplomacy,” he said.

The comments come amid growing public debate over the arrest of Mr. Frimpong, who is serving his first term and its implications for Ghana’s parliamentary and diplomatic processes.

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In a statement signed by the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, Parliament said it had officially been informed of the incident and is currently engaging Ghana’s diplomatic mission in The Hague to gather more details.

According to the statement, the Rt. Hon. Speaker and the leadership of Parliament are in close contact with the mission to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the detention of the Independent MP.

“It has come to the attention of Parliament that the Hon. Member for Asante Akyem North Constituency, Mr. Kwame Ohene Frimpong, has been detained at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam, in the Netherlands.

“The Rt. Hon. Speaker and the leadership of the House are in touch with Ghana’s Mission in The Hague for detailed information on the matter. The public will be duly informed appropriately on this matter,” the statement said.

Parliament further assured the public that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

In a notice issued on Monday, May 4, 2026, the Office of the Speaker called on Members of Parliament to reconvene for the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic.

The directive was issued in accordance with Order 58 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, which empowers the Speaker to summon the House.

Parliament has been on recess since March 27, 2026, when the First Meeting of the Second Session was adjourned sine die after eight weeks of sittings. During that period, the House held 32 sittings and passed several bills.

The break also coincided with the Easter season, giving MPs the opportunity to return to their constituencies.

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The session, organised by the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs in collaboration with UNICEF Ghana, took place at the Coconut Grove Hotel in Accra.

The training focused on enhancing participants’ understanding of child safeguarding, age-appropriate communication, and the need for inclusive and responsible representation of children in media coverage.

Facilitators emphasised the importance of protecting children’s rights in journalism, urging participants to be intentional and ethical in their storytelling.

They encouraged careful use of language and images, stressing that media practitioners must always uphold the dignity of children featured in their reports.

Participants were also reminded of the need to seek consent before taking or publishing photographs involving minors, in line with global standards and the principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

According to facilitators, ethical journalism goes beyond professional obligation and plays a direct role in shaping the well-being and future of children.

The session featured real-life case studies and interactive exercises, helping participants connect ethical principles to everyday reporting practices.

Organisers say the initiative is part of broader efforts to ensure that media narratives not only inform the public but also contribute to protecting children and promoting their rights.

In a letter dated March 30, 2026, addressed to the Secretary to the President at the Jubilee House, the Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, confirmed the submission of nine certified copies of each bill passed by the House.

The bills include the Security and Intelligence Agencies Bill, 2025; the University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences Bill, 2025; the Ghana Deposit Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2025; the Growth and Sustainability Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2026; and the Education Regulatory Bodies (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

The Clerk requested that the President signify his assent to the bills in accordance with Article 106(7) of the 1992 Constitution.

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