Alban Bagbin, Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, was expected to meet with President Nana Akufo-Addo on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, to clarify the situation regarding the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill, 2023.
This anticipated meeting follows a communication gap that emerged between Parliament and the Presidency. On Monday, Nov. 27, Bagbin informed Parliament that the Presidency had not responded to his letter about the bill passed during Parliament’s last session.
Majority Leader and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, clarified that the bill had not yet reached the President due to some errors needing correction.
The minority in Parliament accused President Akufo-Addo of breaching Article 106 (7) of the constitution by not assenting to the bill. In response, the Presidency issued a statement rejecting these accusations, noting it only received the bill recently.
Responding to Tamale South MP Haruna Iddrisu’s query about the bill, Bagbin disclosed his scheduled visit to Jubilee House to meet President Akufo-Addo. The meeting aims to address the confusion and ensure the proper legislative process for the bill’s assent.
The Criminal Offences Amendment Bill, 2023, has been a subject of national interest, highlighting the need for clear and effective communication between Ghana’s legislative and executive branches. This meeting between Speaker Bagbin and President Akufo-Addo is expected to pave the way for a resolution, showcasing the government’s commitment to constitutional adherence and legislative integrity.
