Parliament has successfully approved the 2024 Budget Statement & Economic Policy after a tumultuous journey marked by a dramatic headcount.
The decision, finalized on Thursday, December 7, 2023, was reached following a series of events that raised eyebrows and heightened tensions among lawmakers.
The budget presentation, delivered by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta on November 15, initially seemed routine. However, controversy ensued on November 29 when the Majority staged a walkout, alleging improper conduct by the Speaker. The Majority contended that the Speaker had initially ruled in their favour during a voice vote but reversed the decision after the Minority demanded a headcount.
Accusations flew, with Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu accusing the Speaker of employing delay tactics to allow absent Minority members to join the vote. The Majority claimed the Speaker’s actions were an attempt to manipulate the outcome in favour of the Minority.
The speaker, in defence, clarified that he had expressed an opinion and not delivered a ruling. He argued that his utterance was subject to challenge, leading to the subsequent headcount as outlined in parliamentary rules.
The controversy topped in a headcount on December 7, where 138 members voted in favour (Aye), 136 opposed (No), and one member was absent. Despite initial resistance from the Majority Leader to the headcount modality, the Speaker stood firm, asserting his mandate to make such decisions.
This development marks the resolution of a highly contentious process and sets the stage for the implementation of the 2024 Budget Statement and Economic Policy.