By Our Democracy News GH

The Speaker of Parliament has cautioned Members of Parliament against rushing legislation through the House, insisting that bills must undergo proper scrutiny by parliamentary committees before being presented for consideration and passage.

He said presiding officers would be reluctant to approve requests for the suspension of Standing Orders simply to speed up the legislative process.

The Speaker further disclosed that he had discussed the matter with his deputies, emphasising that certificates of urgency would not be entertained unless exceptional circumstances clearly justified their use.

Committees must have adequate time to scrutinise bills

According to the Speaker, parliamentary committees must be given sufficient time to examine proposed legislation, consult relevant stakeholders and prepare comprehensive reports for consideration by the House.

He stressed that the legislative process should not be reduced to a routine exercise of rushing bills through Parliament without adequate examination.

Speaker urges responsible use of parliamentary procedures

The Speaker called on MPs to use parliamentary procedures responsibly, noting that the House must balance efficiency in conducting its business with the need for thorough legislative scrutiny.

He emphasised that legislation must follow the appropriate parliamentary process, reflecting Parliament’s constitutional responsibilities and its obligation to the people of Ghana.

His position signals a firm caution against the unnecessary use of certificates of urgency to accelerate the passage of bills without sufficient justification.