The ad-hoc committee of Parliament constituted to probe the vote of censure against Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, has adjourned the hearing to Friday, November 18, 2022.
This is to allow Mr Ofori-Atta ample time to prepare his defence regarding the grounds of the vote of censure, which includes gross mismanagement of the economy.
The Minority had provided seven grounds based on which they argued that the sector minister was not fit to continue in his role as the manager of the economy.
Counsel for the embattled minister Gabby Otchere-Darko had prayed for the committee to grant his client 48 hours to examine the documents tendered in evidence.
“We wish to request 48 hours for the minister to properly study the documents and respond accordingly,” he indicated after six hours of questioning on Tuesday, November 15.
The committee granted the request with seemingly no hesitation.
It will be recalled that on October 25, 2022, the Minority in Parliament filed a censure motion against the Finance Minister in compliance with Article 82 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
The Minority explained that the decision was based on the “alarming incompetence resulting in the collapse of the Ghanaian economy” and some ethical breaches.
Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu insists the record inflation rate, depreciation of the cedi, excessive borrowing, reckless spending, and the failure to control fuel prices are clear indications that the Finance Minister is not fit to continue in his role.
Although the majority had earlier declared its support, they made a u-turn, claiming the Minority’s motive for removing Ofori-Atta was ill-intended and ultimately differed from their demands.
The committee, composed of eight members, with four from each side of the House, is expected to submit its report for consideration within seven days.
NDC Member of Parliament for Bolgatanga East, Dominic Ayine, and NPP MP for Adansi-Asokwa KT Hammond are co-chairing the committee.