(VIDEO) Parliament Can Revisit Passed Bills for Amendments Before Presidential Assent – Speaker Bagbin
Speaker Bagbin says Parliament can amend passed bills before they are sent to the President for assent.
- Bagbin explains procedure for amending passed bills.
- Speaker defends review of anti-LGBTQI+ bill.
- Calls for reforms in judicial leadership selection.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has clarified that Parliament retains the authority to revisit and amend bills even after they have been read for the third time and passed by the House, provided they have not yet been transmitted to the President for assent.
According to the Speaker, the Standing Orders of Parliament permit such actions to enable lawmakers to correct errors, make additions, or remove provisions before legislation is formally sent to the President.
Mr. Bagbin explained that recent public commentary regarding his directives on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQI+ bill, appears to stem from a misunderstanding of parliamentary procedures.
He stressed that there is nothing unusual or improper about bringing a passed bill back before the House for further consideration and amendments if the need arises.
The Speaker noted that the rules governing Parliament are designed to ensure that legislation is thoroughly scrutinised and refined before receiving presidential assent.
Beyond legislative matters, Mr. Bagbin also used the occasion to advocate reforms within the Judiciary. He suggested that the Judicial Service should consider electing its own leadership, including the Chief Justice, rather than having the position filled through presidential appointment.
He further urged the Supreme Court to maintain its status as the country’s highest court by focusing on matters of significant constitutional and legal importance.
According to him, cases that can be adequately handled by lower courts should not routinely be elevated to the Supreme Court, as doing so could undermine the court’s prestige and effectiveness.
Mr. Bagbin made the remarks when a planning committee for the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Agyei Primpong, paid a courtesy call on him in Parliament to formally invite him to participate in the anniversary celebrations.
From Martin Kwabena Ahwireng Quaye
