Parliament Approves Budget Amid Kpandai Dispute Chaos

Parliament approved the 2026 Budget allocation reports on Tuesday, despite a chaotic scene that unfolded in the chamber. The uproar stemmed from protests by the Minority over the Speaker’s declaration of the Kpandai parliamentary seat as vacant.

The Majority side successfully adopted the report shortly after tensions escalated, with Minority MPs staging a walkout and gathering in the centre of the floor, chanting slogans and briefly engaging in a scuffle.

The intense shouting match between MPs from both sides forced parliamentary marshals to intervene, temporarily halting proceedings. However, the Majority proceeded to approve the budget allocation report, a crucial step in the 2026 fiscal policy approval process.

The Minority has vowed to continue obstructing government business until the Kpandai seat issue is resolved. They argue that the Speaker acted prematurely in communicating with the Electoral Commission regarding the vacancy, citing ongoing legal challenges at both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

Following the contentious approval, the Speaker adjourned the sitting, bringing an end to a dramatic day characterized by accusations and heated exchanges. The adjournment raises questions about how Parliament will proceed with the budget approval if the Kpandai impasse continues.

Speaking to JoyNews after the sitting, First Deputy Minority Whip, Habib Iddrisu, described the approval process as “shameful.”

“There was no government business conducted as far as the minority is concerned,” he stated. The MP for Tolon added that the Minority will “advise themselves” when Parliament reconvenes on Wednesday.

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