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During the resumption of proceedings to finalize the vote on the approval of the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy, tensions escalated in Parliament as only three members from the majority side were present in the House.
Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensa-Bonsu, Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh Dompreh, and Deputy Chief Whip Habib Iddrisu were among the few members present at the commencement of proceedings. However, the critical moment emerged when Speaker Alban Bagbin sought to proceed with a voice vote to determine the budget’s fate.
Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armarh Kofi Buah contested the voice vote method, advocating for a headcount instead. This led to increased tensions as emotions ran high, with members from the Majority side objecting to the proposal, causing a rift.
Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin orchestrated an unexpected walkout from the House, leading other colleagues to follow suit, resulting in Speaker Bagbin suspending the proceedings.
On the following day, Bagbin reaffirmed that the 2024 budget statement remained unapproved and directed the business committee to reschedule it for the following week. He dismissed claims of impartiality and clarified his ruling, emphasizing that the budget debate required further consideration.
The minority side vowed to reject the budget, labeling it as empty due to content they deemed detrimental to the Ghanaian populace, adding fuel to the already tense parliamentary situation. The impasse within Parliament raises concerns regarding the fate of the 2024 Budget and underscores the need for further deliberation and resolution.
