Ghana needs a second Law Chamber – Kufuor reiterates

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has reiterated his suggestion for the addition of a second Chamber to Parliament as exists in Britain and other countries.

Speaking to Kafui Dey on Morning Starr on Starr 103.5FM Monday, on the occasion of his 76th birthday, Mr. Kufuor said a second Chamber which is made up of equal representation of regions, academics and distinguished persons in society will be ideal for the country’s development.

"We need a second opinion in our law making and so for that, I will still urge us to look at the institution of an upper house in addition to the lower house and the two should make the legislature.

"The upper house will take a second look in our law making, sometimes I see the process is too rushed so we do not scrutinise the laws that are used to govern us...so lets look at it, people talk of cost but I tell you, I am guided by value for money," President Kufuor said.

The ex-President added that the second house should be populated “by distinguished citizens in their various occupations and then some of the institutions we already have, some of our chiefs, religious leaders, academics; say vice chancellors, some of our professional groups, it shouldn’t be a big house but a house of about 50-80 of leaders who are worthy not because of their membership of the [ruling] party but just citizens that we all acknowledge".

He said the second Chamber will help to modulate the decision of the lower House thoroughly.

“I tell you when we get that sort of house, the lower house that is made of parties which tend to be partisan would be complimented, to be rounded, to be circumspect in many of the things they do.

He noted that if these suggestions are considered, although it may have drawbacks, it would be very useful and give a voice to the voiceless in many ways.”