Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, humbly issued a formal apology to the Ghanaian public regarding the government’s proposal to amend Road Traffic Regulations, allowing Members of Parliament (M.P.s) and state officials to use sirens and be exempt from speed limits.
The proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I.) sparked widespread public outcry, prompting Bagbin to disavow any prior knowledge of its introduction in parliament initially.
In a statement delivered to the house on Monday, Bagbin not only acknowledged the controversy but also expressed deep regret, showing that he truly understands the public’s concerns.
“Following strong opposition, the government has decided to withdraw the proposed amendments… We recognize the public perception of insensitivity. I am here to offer an apology and assure the Ghanaian people that this parliament remains keenly aware of and responsive to their concerns,” Bagbin stated.
Additionally, Bagbin announced the implementation of new standing orders requiring a pre-laying process to introduce legislative instruments. This process ensures rigorous review before any instrument is formally presented in parliament.
“Parliament has empowered the Subsidiary Legislation Committee with critical mandates. These include ensuring proposed subsidiary legislation aligns with the constitution, Acts of Parliament, and other laws; identifying potential inconsistencies, ambiguities, or concerns; and providing recommendations to refine and improve the proposed legislation,” Bagbin explained.
Recognizing the importance of thorough scrutiny, Bagbin emphasized the significance of the pre-laying process. This mandates that individuals intending to lay an L.I. or C.I. engage with the Subsidiary Legislation Committee for comprehensive review before submission to parliament.
The Speaker’s apology and procedural reforms not only underscore parliament’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness but also serve as a reassurance to the public that their concerns are being taken seriously, particularly in legislative matters impacting public safety and governance.
