Parliament begins debate on state of the nation address


Parliament has begun the debate on the President’s state of the nation address. The motion to thank the President for the message stood in the name of the MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. 

In his submission, he said the president was truthful, sincere and gave hope to the nation in his address. He said the president reiterated his commitment to expand the nation’s educational infrastructure. 

He said the construction of more senior high schools by government is a bold step being spearheaded by the President Mahama. Dominic Hlordzi and Augustus Acquaye report.

President John Dramani Mahama appeared before Parliament on the 26th of last month to present the message on the state of the nation. As is the custom of the House, MPs will over the next few days, debate on the president’s message.
 
Parliamentary correspondents, Dominic Hlordzi and Augustus Acquaye report that setting the ball rolling, the MP for North Tongu,and Deputy Education Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the President has shown foresight when it comes to education. 

He said the President highlighted the commencement of the re-sit of BECE candidates which is a novelty. He said the President showed that he was resolute to ensure more children go to school.

The MP for Wenchi, Professor Gyan-Baffour said the President did not provide concrete measures to address challenges on the energy front. He said some people have lost their lives as a result of the power outages. He said power crisis will not be experienced by a future NPP government.

Meanwhile, the Women Caucus of Parliament has saluted Ghanaian women for their efforts at making the lives of people albeit under sometimes harsh conditions. 

In a statement to mark international women’s day, the chairperson of the women caucus of Parliament, Hajia Mary Boforo advocated the expansion of the Women in Local governance fund. She said the broadening of the fund will ensure support for basic developmental programmes for elected Assemblywomen.

GBC