Accra, Friday, August 1, 2025 – Ghana’s Parliament has adjourned sine die after concluding the Forty-Third Sitting of the Second Meeting of the First Session of the current legislature. The final sitting was marked by a blend of solemnity, political tension, and calls for institutional introspection.
As the House rose for recess, key leaders took turns to reflect on the just-ended session, which has been widely regarded as one of the most intense in recent memory. The session recorded over 43 sittings in 10 weeks, often extending late into the night and into weekends.
Minority Leader Raises Concerns Over Legislative Procedure
The Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, used the opportunity to raise concerns over what he described as a disturbing trend of bypassing due legislative process. He particularly criticized the frequent resort to the certificate of urgency to pass bills, cautioning that it undermines the principle of consensus and thoughtful debate.
“Yes, numbers matter, but principles matter more. Parliament is a moral contract… power must be exercised with restraint,” Hon. Afenyo-Markin emphasized.
He also paid glowing tribute to the late MP for Akwatia, Hon. Ernest Kumi, describing him as a rising star whose loss has cast a dark cloud over the House.
Majority Leader Highlights Productivity and Workload
On the Majority side, Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, acknowledged the grueling nature of the just-ended session, commending Members for their commitment despite the heavy workload.
“This recess is an opportunity for Members to return to their constituencies, reconnect with their people, and recharge with their families. But our parliamentary duties do not end — they continue in the communities we represent.”
He also expressed concern over the health and wellbeing of legislators, noting the recurrent loss of sitting MPs due to health-related issues, and urged Members to take better care of themselves during the break.
Speaker Pays Tribute, Urges Health Reform for MPs
In a statement delivered on his behalf by the First Deputy Speaker, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, called for urgent reforms to support the health and wellbeing of legislators, following the recent passing of the Akwatia MP, Hon. M. S. Yaw Kumi, aged 40.
“His death is a painful reminder of the enormous physical and emotional toll of parliamentary life. The House must begin serious conversations about ensuring adequate healthcare support for its Members.”
The Speaker also acknowledged the ongoing electoral dispute in Ablekuma North, reiterating Parliament’s interest in seeing a just and timely resolution in the interest of democratic representation.
Finance Minister Presents Global Fund Agreement
Earlier in the day, the Minister for Finance laid before the House the Agreement on the Privileges and Immunities of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (2011) — a step seen as strengthening Ghana’s commitment to global health financing and cooperation.
With the House now adjourned, Members of Parliament are expected to spend the coming weeks engaging with their constituents, following up on local development issues, and preparing for the next meeting.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
