A lawsuit has been filed against the Speaker of Parliament and the Attorney General by a concerned private citizen named Paul Boama Sefa.
The allegations revolve around the supposed violation of specific sections of Ghana’s constitution in relation to the handling of the Human Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021, by the legislative body.
The plaintiff argues that despite the bill having financial implications for the consolidated fund, it was not accompanied by a fiscal impact analysis document when presented to parliament. The Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee of Parliament has already recommended the bill’s passage into law.
However, it seems that obstacles lie ahead for the bill. The individual responsible for this legal action identifies himself as a farmer and private citizen residing in the Ashanti Region. Paul emphasizes that it is the duty of the Speaker of Parliament to ensure that all legislative procedures are carried out in accordance with the law.
He points out that the Public Financial Management Act mandates that any bill presented to parliament should be accompanied by a fiscal impact analysis, which he claims is lacking in the Human Rights and Family Values Bill.
Paul refers to a memo from the Attorney General to Parliament, wherein the same concern regarding the absence of a fiscal impact analysis is raised.
The plaintiff seeks a court order to prevent the speaker, deputy speakers, and others involved from proceeding with any further steps related to the bill until this requirement is fulfilled.
In its final report to Parliament, the Committee addressed the Attorney General’s concern. Paul highlights this and emphasizes that certain sections of the bill impose charges on the consolidated fund.
However, the Committee assured that through the proposed amendments, this issue would be addressed accordingly.