Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has warned Members of Parliament against excessive delays and unproductive debates, as he pushes for a more disciplined and efficient legislative process in the new session of Parliament.
Addressing journalists at a leadership media briefing on Tuesday, Mr. Ayariga said Parliament can no longer afford to waste valuable sitting hours on lengthy questions, extended ministerial responses, and repetitive debates.
According to him, improving time management in the House is critical to delivering on the expectations of Ghanaians.
The Majority leader proposed firm limits on the time allocated for parliamentary questions, supplementary questions, and ministerial responses.
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He noted that in many instances, a single question takes close to an hour, denying other MPs the opportunity to participate.
“We cannot spend one hour on one question when there are many important issues before us,” he said.
He stressed that most answers are already provided in writing and should only be summarised orally.
The Majority Leader urged MPs to avoid bundling several questions into one, a practice he said complicates proceedings and slows down parliamentary business.
He also criticised ministers who submit lengthy responses filled with background information.
“We are interested in solutions and conclusions, not long histories,” he stated.
Mr. Ayariga cautioned ministers against submitting urgent bills at the last minute and forcing Parliament into late-night sittings.
He explained that such situations often arise when the government faces pressure from international agreements and development partners. Early submission of bills, he said, will allow for proper scrutiny and prevent rushed decisions.
The Majority Leader announced that committee chairpersons who fail to present reports on schedule will face sanctions, stressing that the Business Committee has resolved to strictly enforce reporting timelines.
“Reports must not be allowed to expire. Committees must account for their work,” he warned.
Touching on concerns over low attendance in the chamber, Mr. Ayariga rejected claims that MPs are neglecting their duties.
He explained that lawmakers are often engaged in committee assignments, constituency work, and official meetings outside the chamber.
He maintained that a quorum is always achieved when critical business is to be transacted.
“Anytime we need the numbers, we get them,” he said.
Mr. Ayariga reminded MPs that the current session spans only eight weeks, with four sitting days per week. This limited timeframe, he said, demands seriousness and cooperation from all sides.
“If we use our time well, we can clear most of the bills before us,” he noted.
The Majority Leader observed that improving efficiency in Parliament will help restore public trust in the legislature and acknowledged that scenes of near-empty chambers and prolonged debates have damaged Parliament’s image.
According to him, faster and more focused lawmaking will demonstrate accountability and commitment to national development.