Parliament rejects motion to investigate Gold-for-Reserves programme

Parliament has rejected a motion seeking to establish an Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the controversial Gold-for-Reserves programme.

The motion, which was moved by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, aimed to probe the scheme’s design, implementation, governance, financial performance, and its environmental and public health implications. It was seconded by the Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, Abena Osei Asare.

The push for the investigation was grounded in Article 103 of the 1992 Constitution and several provisions of Parliament’s Standing Orders. However, after debate, the Majority Caucus successfully opposed the motion, leading to its rejection.

Speaking against the motion, the MP for Amenfi West, Eric Afful, argued that the programme was originally launched in 2022 as an initiative of the Bank of Ghana. He contended that the scheme had failed to deliver on its objectives due to alleged mismanagement by the previous government, describing it as unsuccessful and lacking visibility.

Following the Majority’s opposition, the motion was subsequently dismissed, preventing the formation of the proposed committee.