Accountability forms the bedrock of effective governance, with parliamentary oversight serving as a critical mechanism for ensuring public officials deliver on their commitments. In July 2025, the Parliament’s Committee on Assurances will hold a public hearing to rigorously review the execution of promises made by the Executive arm of government. This exercise seeks to examine the extent to which the government has honored its word to the Ghanaian people. At the heart of this endeavor is Dominic Nitiwul, Chairman of the Committee, who has repeatedly emphasized the paramount importance of serving the interests of Ghanaians. To prepare for this crucial task, committee members recently participated in a capacity-building workshop designed to hone their skills in holding the Executive accountable for their government assurances.

Ensuring Accountability: Parliament’s Mandate on Government Assurances

The Committee on Assurances bears the core responsibility of monitoring the execution of promises made by Ministers and other state officials. This mandate is central to maintaining trust between the government and the citizenry.

Holding public officials accountable for their statements and promises is vital for a healthy democracy. As Dominic Nitiwul stated, “It is the duty of members of this committee to hold office holders who make government assurances to Parliament responsible for their words…” This responsibility underscores the gravity with which the committee approaches its work.

The review will focus specifically on statements and promises made on the floor of Parliament, ensuring that commitments made in the legislative arena are subject to scrutiny. The overarching goal is to promote responsible conduct among public officials, reinforcing the principle that their words carry weight and must be honored.

Capacity Building: Equipping Parliamentarians for Effective Oversight

Prior to the public hearing, a three-day capacity-building workshop was held in Koforidua, aimed at equipping committee members with the skills necessary for effective oversight. This workshop underscores Parliament’s commitment to thoroughly scrutinizing government assurances.

Effective public speaking and diplomacy are crucial skills for committee members, enabling them to navigate complex issues and engage constructively with public officials. As Dominic Nitiwul emphasized, “This is no small task, it requires meticulous attention to detail…and the ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.” The workshop focused on refining these skills, ensuring that members are well-prepared to conduct thorough and fair reviews.

The workshop’s curriculum included modules on effective public speaking, diplomacy, and parliamentary procedures, providing a comprehensive foundation for their oversight responsibilities. This training ensures that committee members can effectively question, analyze, and assess the fulfillment of government assurances.

A Bi-Partisan Commitment to Delivering on Promises

The Committee’s work is characterized by a strong bi-partisan spirit, reflecting a shared commitment to serving the interests of the Ghanaian people, irrespective of political affiliation. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring that government assurances are thoroughly and objectively reviewed.

Honourable Alhaji Muhammad Bawah Braimah, Ranking Member of the Committee, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We represent the people, our first interest is to see to the betterment of our people.” His words underscore the unified purpose that drives the committee’s work.

A key objective is to prevent unfulfilled promises and ensure that commitments made to the people are honored. This includes diligently following up on approved loans for projects, ensuring that funds are used effectively and that promised developments materialize. The review of government assurances includes assessing the progress and impact of these projects.

The Road Ahead: Expectations for the Public Hearing

The public hearing is anticipated to be a rigorous and transparent process, involving the active participation of both the Committee and representatives from the Executive arm of government. The hearing aims to provide a platform for thorough examination of government assurances and their fulfillment.

During the hearing, the committee will ascertain the extent to which promises have been executed, scrutinizing evidence and seeking clarification from relevant officials. This process will involve a detailed assessment of project timelines, budget allocations, and actual outcomes. The involvement of the Executive arm of government is crucial for providing accurate and comprehensive information.

Transparency will be paramount throughout the process, ensuring that the public is informed about the progress and challenges in fulfilling government assurances. By holding public officials accountable, the committee aims to foster trust and confidence in the government’s commitment to serving the people.

In conclusion, the upcoming public hearing represents a critical step in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. The Committee’s mandate, coupled with its bi-partisan commitment and thorough preparation, underscores its dedication to ensuring that government assurances are fulfilled for the benefit of Ghanaians. The Committee remains steadfast in its responsibilities, working diligently to hold public officials accountable and uphold the promises made to the nation.