The female MPs heading committees of Parliament
The 9th Parliament has reconstituted its committees, appointing new leaders in accordance with Article 103 of the 1992 Constitution, Order 204 of the Standing Orders, and established parliamentary practices.
The committees compositions reflect the diverse perspectives within the chamber.
Notably, four women lawmakers have been appointed to chair major committees, marking a significant step forward in advancing gender equality and breaking traditional barriers, particularly as this development coincides with the season of the celebration of International Women’s Day.
These appointments have generated positive feedbacks and have become a beacon of hope for other women.
Here are the four women chairing committees in the 9th Parliament.
Abena Osei-Asare
The Member of Parliament for Atiwa East and former Deputy Minister of Finance has made history with her appointment as the first female chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee.
This committee plays a vital role in overseeing government financial expenditures and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds.
Abena Osei-Asare succeeds James Klutse Avedzi, the former Member of Parliament for Ketu North, in this important leadership position. She leads the charge of the 25-member committee, and her appointment has been met with widespread approval.
In this role, she will collaborate closely with fellow committee members to ensure effective oversight. Davis Opoku Ansah will assist her as the vice chairman of the committee.
Helen Adjoa Ntoso
The Member of Parliament for Krachi West is leading the Select Committee on Gender, Children, and Social Welfare. With her extensive experience and expertise, the veteran lawmaker will bring valuable insight into gender and welfare-related issues.
As chairperson, she and her team will be responsible for examining matters concerning gender, children, and social welfare, ensuring that the concerns of men, women, children, and vulnerable groups are reflected in relevant legislation.
The committee will also consider proposals to advance affirmative action initiatives, with all findings being reported back to the House.
Additionally, the committee is empowered to investigate and inquire into the activities of ministries, agencies, and departments within its mandate.
Helen Ntoso has previously served in the 6th, 7th, and 8th parliaments, further enhancing her qualifications for this important role.
Queenstar Pokua Sawyerr
The Member of Parliament for Agona East, Queenstar Pokua Sawyerr, a veteran lawmaker who has served in the 6th, 7th, and 8th parliaments, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Committee on Local Government and Rural Development.
The committee will oversee and examine issues related to decentralisation, local governance, and rural development. It holds the authority to investigate and inquire into the activities and administration of relevant ministries, departments, and agencies within its mandate.
This investigative power also enables the committee to propose legislation, thereby playing a crucial role in shaping policy and improving governance at the local level.
Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings
The Klottey Korle lawmaker has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Committee on Security and Intelligence, which will oversee matters related to national security.
The committee’s responsibilities include reviewing issues concerning national security and intelligence, as well as investigating the activities and administration of relevant ministries, agencies, and departments.
Additionally, the committee will examine legislative proposals and scrutinise the budget estimates of the National Security Ministry and its associated agencies.
MAG/AE
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