Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, has urged Parliament to strengthen its oversight functions and address its internal funding challenges to enhance its effectiveness.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, he referred to page 9 of the committee’s report, particularly paragraph 9.2, which discusses the establishment of constituency offices for Members of Parliament.
He explained that during his time serving on the Parliamentary Board, the intention was that once these offices were constructed, MPs would have liaison officers who would bridge communication between the constituency and Parliament.
He emphasized the need for Parliament to evaluate itself and confront its funding crisis.
According to him, across the world, parliaments are recognized for their crucial role in oversight, including budget and financial scrutiny.
Referencing the budget presented by Finance Minister Ato Forson, he commended the proposal for a Value for Money Office but stressed that Parliament must complement this with a dedicated Budget Responsibility Office.
He noted that this aligns with international best practices and would strengthen the institution’s ability to scrutinize national finances.
Mr. Iddrisu further questioned Parliament’s current role in approving budgets and financial statements.
He argued that Parliament has reduced its function to merely making comments on the budget without exercising proper approving authority. He pointed out that no legislature entrusted with oversight responsibilities limits itself to commentary alone.
He urged the House to take a keen interest in Article 179 of the Constitution, which outlines Parliament’s authority, especially concerning supplementary estimates, where key words such as “approve” clearly define Parliament’s mandate.
Source: Nana Amoako Gyampa
