Ghana’s Parliament among the most transparent in Africa – Mahama Ayariga

Mahama Ayariga has described Ghana’s Parliament as one of the most transparent legislative institutions on the African continent, revealing that the country currently ranks second in Africa for parliamentary openness and public accessibility.

According to the Majority Leader, Parliament has made significant progress in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation through reforms aimed at improving media coverage and expanding public access to parliamentary proceedings.

Speaking during a Leadership Media Briefing on Friday, May 22, 2026, following the resumption of Parliament, Mr Ayariga said Ghana’s legislature continues to strengthen its reputation as an open and accessible democratic institution.

“In Africa, we are one of the most open parliaments. In fact, we are number two in Africa. I believe that our aspiration is that we become number one in Africa,” he stated.

Mr Ayariga explained that continental parliamentary rankings often involve comparisons between countries operating unicameral and bicameral legislative systems. Despite Ghana operating a unicameral Parliament, he maintained that the country has still performed strongly in continental transparency assessments.

“There is an issue whether we should be put in the category of those who practise the bicameral parliament. We have a unicameral Parliament. But they have number one, and we followed,” he said.

The Majority Leader further highlighted the introduction of live television broadcasts of parliamentary proceedings as one of the key reforms that has enhanced transparency and improved citizens’ understanding of legislative activities.

According to him, the live broadcasts have made it easier for Ghanaians to follow parliamentary debates, monitor the conduct of lawmakers, and stay informed about national policy discussions and legislative decisions.

“Now that we have live television broadcasting of our proceedings, in the next rating they might probably review that and Ghana may climb to the top as a parliament,” he added.

Mr Ayariga noted that Parliament remains committed to deepening transparency, strengthening public trust in democratic governance, and improving citizen engagement through continuous reforms and greater openness.

He also stressed the importance of accessible legislative processes in strengthening democratic accountability and ensuring that citizens remain actively connected to national governance.

The Majority Leader indicated that Ghana’s Parliament would continue pursuing reforms aimed at improving institutional efficiency, public participation, and confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.