By Edzorna Francis Mensah
In a significant development since the implementation of the New Standing Orders of Parliament during the Fourth Session of the Eighth Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, the Speaker, Alban Bagbin, First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei-Owusu, and Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah Amoako, were out of the jurisdiction for official assignments.
Consequently, an MP was chosen to oversee the proceedings of the Eighth Sitting of the First Meeting of Parliament on Friday, 16th February 2024, in accordance with Order 12 (4) of the new Standing Orders of Parliament.
The Member presiding, Kwasi Ameyaw Kyeremeh, the NPP Member of Parliament for Sunyani West, was proposed by MP for Nsawam/Adoagyire and Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh Dompreh, and seconded by MP for Adaklu and Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza.
Expressing gratitude to the House leadership for the opportunity to chair, the Member-Speaker called for cooperation to ensure effective proceedings. MPs from both sides took the opportunity to congratulate him and pledged their support.
Taking charge fully, Member-Speaker Kwasi Ameyaw Kyeremeh led the session, administering prayers and presiding over the Business Statement presented by MP for Tolon and Deputy Majority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, for the Third Week ending Friday, 23rd February 2024, as well as the correction of votes and proceedings for the Seventh Sitting of the First Meeting of Parliament on Thursday, 15th February 2024.
He subsequently adjourned the house to Tuesday, 20th February 2024, after the adoption of the business statement for the same week.