The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has cautioned the government against using its majority in Parliament as a basis for passing every piece of legislation before the House.
Dr Bawumia said although the government commands one of the largest parliamentary majorities in the history of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, such numbers must come with a greater responsibility to exercise restraint.
His comments come amid debate over the passage of the Tribunals Bill, which has attracted criticism from opposition figures and some civil society groups.
Addressing the nation on Sunday, July 19, the former Vice President said the ability of Parliament to pass legislation does not automatically mean every proposed law should receive approval.
“Mr President, your government commands one of the largest majorities in the history of the Fourth Republic. With such numbers, Parliament can pass almost any bill it wishes. Not everything that can be passed should be passed,” he said.
According to Dr Bawumia, the strength of a parliamentary majority should be measured by the quality and impact of laws passed rather than the ease with which they can secure approval.
“History will not ask how many votes a law received. It will ask whether the law is just, equitable, and seeks to promote and protect the interests of Ghanaians,” Dr Bawumia added.
Dr Bawumia argued that Ghana’s judicial challenges, including court congestion, should be addressed through investments in the existing court system rather than creating a separate justice structure.
He maintained that reforms such as appointing more judges, constructing additional courtrooms, and digitising judicial processes would provide a more sustainable solution to improving access to justice.
