By Godwill Arthur-Mensah, GNA
Accra, Nov. 10, GNA – Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has directed that plenary sittings of Parliament commence at 1400 hours from Tuesday to Friday, as part of efforts to promote efficiency, punctuality, discipline and active participation in parliamentary business.
The directive, issued in accordance with Orders 5 and 55 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, was communicated to the House on Tuesday.
Mr Bagbin said the revised sitting time would allow parliamentary committees to conduct their work in the mornings, while ministers and government officials would have sufficient time to attend to official duties before participating in proceedings on the floor of the House.
He noted that the new arrangement would also enhance public access to parliamentary proceedings by providing a predictable schedule for sittings.
The Speaker further directed the Clerk to Parliament to communicate the decision to all ministers and relevant government officials to ensure compliance and effective participation in House business.
Mr Bagbin, however, indicated that Parliament could sit outside its regular hours whenever circumstances required, particularly during major national assignments.
In that regard, he announced that the presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy of Government, scheduled for Thursday, November 12, could commence at 1800 hours instead of the usual sitting time.
The Speaker expressed confidence that the new schedule would contribute to strengthening accountability, responsiveness and transparency in Parliament’s work, urging Members and stakeholders to support its implementation in the interest of effective legislative governance.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah
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