Parliament resumes today; 2027 Budget, Anti-Gay Bill top agenda

Parliament is expected to resume sitting on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the Third Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic, with the 2027 Budget Statement and other major legislative and national policy issues expected to feature prominently.

The meeting comes at a crucial time as the House prepares to consider the government's fiscal proposals for the 2027 financial year, alongside other legislative matters with significant implications for Ghana's governance, economy and social development.

One of the major highlights of the parliamentary meeting will be the presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy by the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, scheduled for November 12.

The budget is expected to outline the government's economic priorities, revenue and expenditure projections, fiscal targets and policy interventions for the coming year.

It will also provide an indication of the government's strategy for addressing Ghana's economic challenges, sustaining economic growth, managing public debt and improving living conditions.

Following the presentation, Members of Parliament are expected to begin detailed scrutiny of the proposed budget, with parliamentary committees examining allocations to ministries, departments and agencies under their respective jurisdictions.

The process will allow lawmakers to assess government spending priorities, question proposed allocations and make recommendations before the House proceeds to consider the Appropriation Bill.

The consideration and passage of the Appropriation Bill will be another major responsibility for Parliament during the meeting.

The bill, once approved, will provide the legal authority for government expenditure from the Consolidated Fund in accordance with the approved budget for the 2027 financial year.

Its passage is therefore essential to the implementation of the government's spending plans and the financing of public programmes and services in the coming year.

Beyond the budget, Parliament is also expected to revisit the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly known as the Anti-Gay Bill.

The proposed legislation has generated extensive national and international debate, drawing strong interest from political actors, religious organisations, civil society groups and human rights advocates.

Its possible return to the parliamentary agenda could reignite discussions about Ghana's approach to sexual orientation, family values, human rights and the role of legislation in addressing these issues.

Supporters of the bill have argued that it is necessary to protect Ghanaian cultural and family values. Critics, however, have raised concerns about its human rights implications and potential legal consequences.

The issue is expected to attract renewed public attention as lawmakers consider the legislative agenda for the meeting.

With the 2027 Budget presentation approaching and other contentious policy matters potentially returning to the floor, the Third Meeting is expected to be an important period for parliamentary scrutiny, debate and decision-making.