Ghana’s Parliament has been ranked as the second most open legislature on the African continent, according to Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, who says ongoing reforms could soon push the country to the top spot.
Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, May 22, as Parliament resumed sitting, Mr. Ayariga highlighted what he described as significant strides in transparency and public accessibility within the legislative arm of government. He noted that Ghana has steadily improved its openness through deliberate efforts aimed at strengthening public trust and participation.
According to him, the country’s Parliament now stands out among its peers in Africa, trailing only one other legislature in terms of transparency. He expressed optimism that Ghana could soon take the lead, citing recent initiatives designed to deepen engagement with citizens.
Mr. Ayariga pointed to the introduction of live television broadcasts of parliamentary proceedings as a major milestone. He explained that the move has made it easier for the public to follow debates and decision-making processes in real time, thereby enhancing accountability.
He also acknowledged ongoing discussions about how different parliamentary systems are assessed, particularly the distinction between unicameral and bicameral legislatures. Ghana operates a unicameral system, which he said has contributed to its efficiency and accessibility.
Despite the progress, the Majority Leader stressed that Parliament is not complacent. He indicated that further improvements, including expanded media access and digital outreach, are being pursued to ensure that citizens remain well-informed about legislative activities.
Mr. Ayariga expressed confidence that these measures would be reflected in future assessments, potentially elevating Ghana to the number one position in Africa for parliamentary openness.
The remarks come as Parliament continues to position itself as a more transparent and citizen-focused institution, with renewed emphasis on bridging the gap between lawmakers and the public.
