Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Amoako Asiamah who was in the chair on Wednesday November 1, 2023 has hinted that the energy minister, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh would appear and brief the House to brief members on the controlled spillage of the Akosombo dam by the Volta River Authority (VRA) that rendered thousands homeless.
This was in line with a statement made by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa whose constituents were largely affected.
Members of the House suggested that the Speaker of the House invite the energy minister to brief the House on the spillage and also establish Independent Inquiry into the spillage by VRA.
Members from both sides of the House expressed sentiments and agreed that that the issue should be tackled as a National Disaster.
The Speaker however deferred the call on the House to set up an Independent Inquiry till the Energy Minister briefs the House next week Wednesday.
At the beginning of the sitting the Rt. Hon. Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Majority Leader, Hon. Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu and the Minority Leader Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, made remarks to welcome Members from the recess and asked them to brace themselves up for the work ahead.
The House is also expected to receive the Minister of Finance, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, to present the 2024 Budget during this meeting of Parliament.
The spillage which according to the VRA was necessary to prevent a nationwide disaster began on September 15, 2023 and lasted for about a month.
Relief items were donated to affected communities and residents and measures are in place to help affected residents return to normalcy.
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has also assured all victims of adequate relief items until their lives return to normalcy.
