Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has defended the financial requirements of recalling Parliament, emphasizing the crucial role these sessions play in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic framework.
In an interview on Friday, November 8, Mr. Ayariga addressed public concerns over the reported GH¢1 million cost per recall session.
He argued that these expenses represent a reasonable investment in protecting constitutional democracy, asserting that the alternative—military rule or dictatorship—would have far graver consequences for Ghana’s progress and stability.
The debate over the cost was initially raised by Tamale Central MP Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who disclosed that each recall session incurs approximately GH¢1 million.
Following Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to adjourn Parliament indefinitely on Thursday, November 7, some members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) questioned whether these expenses are a wise use of resources.
In response, Mahama Ayariga emphasized that the costs are justified, as convening Parliament, even at a significant expense, is vital for upholding democratic values.
He underscored that these sessions allow MPs to engage in essential discussions that influence national governance and protect citizens’ rights, making the expenditure a valuable investment in sustaining a stable, constitutional government.
“You cannot put a price on protecting and defending the constitution or on fostering a constitutional culture essential to the governance of this country,” Ayariga stated.
“Yes, these sessions cost money, but it’s far better than the alternative of military rule or dictatorship, which would come at a much greater cost,” he told Citi News.
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