Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, Member of Parliament, has filed a Private Member’s Bill aimed at enhancing fiscal accountability by requiring all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to obtain approval from the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) before accessing public funds for their policies and programs.
The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that government spending aligns strictly with approved national development plans, thereby promoting transparency and responsible use of public resources.
Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a noted governance expert, has praised the legislative effort, describing it as “an interesting piece of legislative proposal” that could significantly improve accountable governance.
Speaking on the matter, Barker-Vormawor acknowledged constitutional questions regarding Parliament’s authority to delay the release of constitutional funds. However, he expressed confidence that if such a bill were introduced as a Government Bill, the courts would likely uphold it, viewing it as a measure that enhances fiscal discipline.
He further added that the same principle of accountability should apply to Private Member’s Bills like the one tabled by Oppong-Nkrumah.
“Kudos to Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah for this!!” Barker-Vormawor concluded.
The bill’s introduction reflects growing calls for stricter oversight of public finances to ensure government projects are effectively aligned with national priorities and deliver tangible results. Parliament is expected to debate the bill in the coming sessions.
