Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has expressed disapproval over the decision to recall parliament a day after recess, describing it as an act in bad faith.
Majority leader Afenyo Markin pursuant to article 112(3) of the constitution petitioned the speaker to convene an emergency sitting to consider important state business a day after the July 30 adjournment.
Despite his reservations, he has admitted three critical items for consideration during a two-day emergency sitting starting September 3.
The recalled session aims to address a $250 million energy sector loan agreement, another $250 million loan agreement for the Ghana Stability Fund, and tax exemptions.
Bagbin stated, “Despite the efforts of the House, some businesses could not be completed and I indicated to the House my ‘no’ objection to the House being recalled sitting in mid-September under Article 1123. To exercise this option immediately a day after the agenda, is, to say the least, unfortunate and in bad fate.”
However, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo Markin disagreed with the speaker’s assertions.
He noted, “Mr Speaker the request as I made in a humble prayer was to enable this House to undertake some urgent assignment. I humbly submit, Rt Hon Speaker that the application was well grounded in good faith in spite of the disagreement.”
Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson reiterated the Minority’s opposition to the tax exemptions, advocating for conversion to tax credits or linking them to equity shares as stipulated in the tax exemptions Act.
“The NDC minority has not changed our position on these tax exemptions, [they] are not in the best interest of Ghanaians.
“Our position has always been and still remains that they should convert these tax exemptions into tax credits and otherwise may link this tax exemption into equity shares as stipulated in the tax exemptions Act,” he said.
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