BY VALENTIA TETTEH
The fourth week of the third meeting of the first session of the Ninth Parliament was marked by intense parliamentary activity, featuring high-stakes vettings, the presentation of the 2026 Budget, key legislative approvals, and a tragic national incident that has prompted urgent calls for reform. From the Chief Justice vetting to the Budget presentation, Parliament was at the center of lively debates and political drama, dominated by high-stakes vettings, the presentation of the 2026 Budget, critical legislative approvals, and a tragic national incident that has sparked calls for urgent reforms.
Chief Justice Vetting Sparks Partisan Tensions
Monday, November 10, saw the vetting of Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie for the position of Chief Justice, a process that quickly escalated into a confrontation between Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga. The dispute arose when Mr. Afenyo-Markin referred to Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as a “disputed Chief Justice nominee,” prompting immediate objections from Mr. Ayariga, who insisted that the session was not a courtroom and demanded a retraction.
The debate intensified over concerns surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, with the Minority questioning the transparency of the process. After a nearly 30-minute suspension, Mr. Afenyo-Markin announced the Minority Caucus’ decision to abstain from the vetting, leaving only the Majority members to conduct proceedings. He stated:
“We, the Minority Caucus, hereby vote en bloc to reject the nominee. The Majority can proceed with the questions. We register in the strongest terms that we reject the nomination, and the report of this committee should reflect a majority report.”
Despite the controversy, the vetting process continued with only the Majority side participating. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, serving as Acting Chief Justice, was nominated by President John Mahama to succeed Justice Torkornoo, whose removal remains under legal challenge. The Minority’s objections were largely rooted in procedural concerns and pending court cases.
Speaker Apologizes to Judiciary
On Tuesday, November 11, Speaker Alban Bagbin issued an unqualified apology to the Judiciary for the conduct of MPs during the vetting session. He emphasized Parliament’s respect for the Judiciary as an equal arm of government and urged members to maintain decorum, citing Standing Order 123(3), which prohibits MPs from imputing improper motives to colleagues or state institutions.
Accusation of Contempt
Also on Tuesday, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga accused Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin of contempt of Parliament, citing his participation in the ECOWAS Parliament session in Nigeria despite being excluded from Ghana’s official delegation.
Mr. Ayariga called for the matter to be referred to the Privileges Committee, arguing that the Minority Leader’s actions undermined Parliament’s authority. Speaker Bagbin confirmed receipt of the complaint and indicated a determination would be made after review.
Revised Lithium Mining Agreement
On the same day, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah presented a revised lithium mining agreement with Barari DV Ghana Limited for parliamentary approval. The revision was prompted by a sharp decline in global lithium prices, affecting project viability. The revised terms include an adjusted royalty rate of 5%, rising to 10% when prices recover. The Minority raised concerns over consistency and transparency, while the Majority stressed the need to protect investments and local livelihoods.
El-Wak Recruitment Tragedy
Wednesday, November 12, was overshadowed by a tragic stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium during a Ghana Armed Forces recruitment exercise, which claimed six lives and left many others injured. Acting Defence Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson reported that the recruitment process had been halted pending an internal investigation.
Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh described the incident as a systemic failure, calling for a national review of recruitment practices, decentralization of the exercise, and immediate measures to prevent future tragedies. Speaker Bagbin directed the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Interior to expedite the appointment of a substantive Defence Minister and recommended reforms, including a continuous recruitment system. Parliament also donated GH₵100,000 to assist victims receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital when Speaker Bagbin led a delegation to visit the victims injured.
Parliament Approves Chief Justice Nominee
On Thursday, November 13, despite strong opposition from the Minority, Parliament approved Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie as the new Chief Justice. Following a headcount, 163 MPs voted in favor and 69 against. The approval followed extensive deliberations on the President’s nominee and the report from the Appointments Committee. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, who has served on the Supreme Court since 2008, will succeed Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo upon being sworn in by the President.
2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson presented the 2026 Budget on Thursday, November 13, outlining macroeconomic and fiscal targets for the medium term (2026–2029).
Key highlights include:
Real GDP growth projected at 4.8–4.9%, with non-oil GDP growth at 4.9%, reflecting efforts to diversify the economy.
Inflation targeted within an 8% band.
Budget deficit forecast at 2% of GDP, down from 2.8% in 2025.
A primary balance surplus of 1.5% of GDP is targeted under the Fiscal Responsibility Framework.
Gross international reserves are expected to cover at least three months of imports.
Procurement of four modern helicopters, one long-range, and one medium-range aircraft for the Ghana Air Force to enhance operational readiness.
The Minister stressed fiscal discipline, stability, and sustainable growth as key pillars of the government’s economic reset agenda.
Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill Passed
Parliament also passed the Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill, establishing a body to improve oversight, transparency, and efficiency in scholarship management nationwide. The Bill received unanimous approval after its third reading.
Criticism of the 24-Hour Economy Initiative
On Friday, November 14, 2025, Former Finance Minister Dr. Amin Adam criticised the 24-Hour Economy initiative, describing it as “a confusing mix of policy ideas” that has failed to create the promised jobs.
He expressed concern over low capital expenditure allocations, overly optimistic revenue projections, and minimal support for the initiative in the 2026 Budget, urging Ghanaians to “manage expectations.”
Looking Ahead for the Fifth Week
Deputy Majority Leader George Ricketts-Hagan announced that six ministers are expected to respond to 37 parliamentary questions during the fifth week. They include:
i. Attorney-General and Minister for Justice
ii. Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture
iii. Minister for Roads and Highways
iv. Minister for the Interior
v. Minister for Food and Agriculture
vi. Minister for Foreign Affairs
Also, pursuant to Order 195(3), Budget commentary is scheduled from November 18–26, 2025. Parliament adjourned on Friday, November 14, to reconvene on Tuesday, November 18, at 10 a.m.
