Mahama Ayariga, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, has commended Members of Parliament for their dedication as the House adjourned sine die, bringing to an end the first meeting of the second session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic.
Speaking during his closing remarks, Ayariga expressed gratitude to Almighty God for sustaining Members of Parliament (MPs) in the discharge of their constitutional duties, while also praising the leadership of the House for guiding proceedings through what he described as challenging but productive sittings.
He further acknowledged both sides of the House for demonstrating patriotism and commitment in supporting what he termed the “Reset Agenda” of President John Dramani Mahama, emphasising that cooperation across party lines remains essential to national progress.
Tribute to late MP and by-election outcome
A major moment of the session, according to the Majority Leader, was the passing of the late MP for Ayawaso East, Alhaji Naser Toure Mahama, who was serving his fourth term. Ayariga described the late MP as a committed legislator who served on several committees and contributed significantly to constituency development.
Following his passing, the Electoral Commission conducted a by-election on March 3, 2026, which was won by Hon Baba Jamal, now representing the constituency.
Legislative and oversight achievements
Ayariga highlighted key legislative and oversight achievements of the House during the eight-week meeting, noting that 33 sittings were held between February 3 and March 27, 2026.
Out of 16 bills presented, nine were passed, including notable legislations such as the 24-Hour Economy Authority Act, 2026, the Value for Money Office Act, 2026, and the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2026. Others remain at various stages of consideration.
He also outlined the passage of several statutory instruments and the approval of key agreements, including a Master Gas Agreement, mining lease, and other contractual arrangements. Additionally, Parliament approved disbursement formulas for major national funds, including the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, National Health Insurance Fund, Ghana Education Trust Fund, and the District Assemblies Common Fund.
State of the nation and economic outlook
Referencing the President’s State of the Nation Address delivered on February 27, 2026, Ayariga said the message reflected both the challenges and optimism of Ghana’s economic trajectory. He noted that the address was debated extensively, with inputs from MPs helping to shape national policy direction.
He emphasised ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy, control inflation, strengthen the currency, and promote inclusive growth. However, he acknowledged that many Ghanaians continue to face economic hardship, stressing the need for policies that translate recovery into tangible benefits for citizens.
Call for discipline and commitment
While commending MPs for their work, Ayariga expressed concern about absenteeism and lateness, which he said affected both plenary and committee work. He urged Members to uphold their responsibilities and remain committed to the electorate’s expectations.
He also called for continued engagement with constituents, emphasising that MPs must listen to the concerns of the people and serve with integrity and dedication.
Acknowledgements and closing remarks
The Majority Leader expressed appreciation to the Parliamentary Service, the Clerk to Parliament and his deputies, as well as the Parliamentary Press Corps for their contributions to the effective functioning of the House.
Concluding his remarks, Ayariga urged MPs to return refreshed and ready to continue advancing the development agenda of the nation when Parliament reconvenes, adding: “May God bless our homeland, Ghana and make our nation great and strong.”
The adjournment marks the end of a busy legislative session characterised by significant lawmaking, oversight, and national debate amid ongoing efforts to strengthen Ghana’s democratic and economic foundations.
