“Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has urged the government to exercise restraint in using its parliamentary majority to push through legislation. He noted that although the administration commands one of the largest majorities in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, such numbers should carry greater responsibility rather than serve as a licence to pass every bill.
His remarks, delivered in a national address on Sunday, July 19, came amid controversy over the Tribunals Bill, which has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups. The former Vice President stressed that parliamentary capacity to enact laws does not mean every proposal merits approval, cautioning: ‘Mr President, your government commands one of the largest majorities in the history of the Fourth Republic.
With such numbers, Parliament can pass almost any bill it wishes. Not everything that can be passed should be passed. According to Dr Bawumia, the strength of a parliamentary majority should be measured by the quality and impact of laws passed rather than the ease with which they can secure approval
“History will not ask how many votes a law received. It will ask whether the law is just, equitable, and seeks to promote and protect the interests of Ghanaians,” Dr Bawumia added.
Dr Bawumia argued that Ghana’s judicial challenges, including court congestion, should be addressed through investments in the existing court system rather than creating a separate justice structure.
He maintained that reforms such as appointing more judges, constructing additional courtrooms, and digitising judicial processes would provide a more sustainable solution to improving access to justice.
Source: Isaac Appiah-Kubi
