By Godwill Arthur-Mensah/Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, Jan. 26, GNA – The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Parliament has declared its resolve to resist any bill introduced on the floor of the House under a certificate of urgency this year.
The Caucus stressed that such resistance would be conducted legitimately and in strict adherence to parliamentary orders and procedures, ensuring that government bills and policies are subjected to thorough scrutiny before passage.
Mr Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader, announced this at a media engagement in Accra on the theme: “Holding Government to Account: A Year of Active and Responsible Minority Scrutiny in Ghana’s 9th Parliament.”
Mr Afenyo-Markin, also Member of Parliament for Effutu, explained that the Minority’s position was not intended to obstruct government business but to safeguard the integrity of parliamentary processes and protect the interests of citizens.
“We will hold the feet of government to fire and ensure that ministers account for their stewardship and promote parliamentary oversight.
“We will continue to play our role responsibly, ensuring that every bill receives the necessary debate and consideration before approval,” Mr Afenyo-Markin stated.
The Minority Leader underscored the importance of transparency and accountability in governance, noting that Parliament must remain in a forum where policies are subjected to rigorous examination rather than rushed through under urgency provisions.
The press conference highlighted the Minority’s commitment to active oversight in the 9th Parliament, with Mr Afenyo-Markin assuring that the Caucus would remain vigilant in scrutinizing government actions while upholding democratic principles.
Beyond legislative matters, the Minority also raised concerns about several national issues. These included the reported $214 million losses incurred through the Goldbod “Gold for Reserve” transactions, government’s failure to purchase cocoa beans at promised prices, challenges with the three-shift job system, and sanctions imposed on Ghanaian immigrants seeking U.S. visas.
The Caucus reaffirmed its determination to hold government accountable on all fronts, pledging to continue its role as a responsible opposition in Parliament.
Parliament is expected to resume from recess on Tuesday, February 3,2026 for the Second Meeting of the Ninth Parliament.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah