The Majority Leader in Parliament, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, has lauded the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban S.K. Bagbin, for his visionary leadership in championing the economic governance training programme for Parliamentarians.
Describing the initiative as a historic moment in Ghana’s democratic journey, Hon. Ayariga underscored its transformative potential to deepen democratic accountability, strengthen fiscal discipline, and enhance governance through robust parliamentary oversight.
Bagbin’s leadership
Speaking at the launch of the “Building the Capacity of Parliamentarians for Economic and Financial Governance” project at the Justice D.F. Annan Auditorium in Accra on Wednesday, June 18, the Majority Leader emphasised the strategic importance and timeliness of the initiative.
The $1.6 million project—developed in partnership with the World Bank and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)—is designed to fortify Parliament’s oversight functions and advance fiscal transparency.
“Parliament’s work now goes far beyond traditional lawmaking and representation. Economic and financial governance is firmly at the core of our mandate. MPs must be equipped to scrutinise public spending, assess fiscal policies, and demand accountability,” Hon. Ayariga noted.
He expressed deep appreciation to the UK Government, through the FCDO, for its enduring support in reinforcing Ghana’s democratic institutions, and expressed optimism that this collaboration would expand into other key developmental areas across the country.
Hon. Ayariga stressed that the programme is not just about skill enhancement—it embodies the values of transparency, accountability, and inclusive growth.
“This programme will ensure that the country’s developmental choices are inclusive, informed, and sustainable,” he affirmed.
Calling on fellow MPs and Parliamentary Service staff to seize the opportunity, he urged them to engage with the programme with seriousness and dedication. He expressed confidence that the new knowledge would elevate the quality of parliamentary debates and reporting, resulting in tangible benefits for communities nationwide.
The event was attended by Speaker Bagbin, Deputy Speakers, the Minority Leader, development partners, FCDO officials, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The initiative is expected to empower lawmakers to take a more proactive role in safeguarding public funds and ensuring improved, citizen-focused governance outcomes for all Ghanaians.
By Osumanu Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com