The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has advocated for stronger institutional independence and enhanced financial autonomy for Parliament, calling for key reforms to boost the legislature’s oversight role, especially in budget and financial governance.

Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, the Minister highlighted the persistent funding challenges faced by the House, stressing the need for a more stable and efficient system to support its operations. He proposed the creation of two key bodies, a Parliamentary Budget Office and a Value for Money Office to equip lawmakers with the technical expertise required to thoroughly assess government expenditure and policy initiatives.

Haruna Iddrisu explained that these reforms would empower Parliament to make more informed decisions, improve fiscal oversight, and strengthen accountability across the public sector.

He also urged the Constitutional Review Committee to revisit Parliament’s role in the national budget approval process, arguing that the legislature must have a clearer and more influential voice in shaping the country’s financial priorities.

According to him, a stable and predictable funding arrangement is vital for Parliament to perform its mandate effectively, particularly its oversight responsibilities, which he described as crucial to good governance and the deepening of Ghana’s democracy.