‘You can’t run a democracy on empty’ - Annoh-Dompreh criticises gov’t over EC’s ¢200m arrears

Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh has criticized the financial paralysis affecting key state institutions. He highlighted that the Electoral Commission (EC) is among the worst affected.

During a heated session in Parliament on Thursday, he revealed that the EC is owed over GH¢200 million from last local government elections. This debt threatens electoral integrity and institutional stability.

He questioned how democracy can thrive when the EC lacks funds. “How do we expect the Electoral Commission to function?” he asked.

Annoh-Dompreh noted that other institutions are also struggling. Statutory payments to District Assemblies, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and even Parliament have stalled. He mentioned that Parliament is still waiting for its second-quarter disbursement.

“These are not luxuries; they are legal obligations,” he stated. He warned that failing to meet basic governance requirements makes the ‘reset agenda’ meaningless.

He called for the Finance Minister or his Deputy to appear before Parliament’s Committee of the Whole. He demanded clarity on payment plans and timelines.

“What’s the plan? When will payments be made?” he pressed. He warned that delays are harming Ghana’s institutions and eroding their legitimacy.

“We see Assemblies crumble, health insurance struggle, and our House left in limbo,” he said. “This is not just bad governance; it is institutional suffocation.”

On an international note, Annoh-Dompreh expressed concern about Ghana's representation at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). Delays in finalizing the country’s delegation must not happen again, he insisted.

He also addressed issues within Parliament itself. Some Members are assigned to only one committee, violating Standing Orders.

“The report to fix this is ready,” he urged. “Parliament cannot preach reform while practicing dysfunction.”

Regarding illegal mining, he criticized budgetary support for fighting galamsey. The government makes promises but provides no funding.

“If this is really a national emergency, why is it unfunded?” he asked.

He concluded by criticizing Parliament’s electronic document system rollout. After six months and millions spent, results remain elusive.

“Where are the results? Where is accountability?” he demanded.

Despite his criticisms, Annoh-Dompreh praised some Ministers for their commitment and regular appearances. However, he warned that ministerial absenteeism hinders national progress.

“The people sent us here to represent them,” he concluded. “Let us not fail them.”