Public Tribunals Bill addresses CSOs’ concerns, says Mahama Ayariga

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Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has assured civil society organisations (CSOs) that the newly passed Public Tribunals Bill will not be abused, insisting that Parliament addressed the key concerns raised by stakeholders before approving the legislation.The bill was passed by Parliament on Thursday night despite opposition from civil society groups, organised labour and the Minority, who had expressed reservations about some of its provisions and called for broader consultations.The Minority subsequently staged a walkout during the bill’s consideration stage, accusing the Majority of disregarding public concerns and forcing the legislation through Parliament.Speaking after the bill’s passage, Mr Ayariga said Parliament had carefully considered the issues raised by stakeholders and was satisfied that the legislation provides a robust framework for the administration of justice.“I believe that all the concerns that civil society groups had have been adequately dealt with,” he said.The Majority Leader, however, acknowledged that the legislative process remains open to further review should legitimate concerns arise after the law comes into force.He encouraged civil society organisations to study the final version of the legislation and continue engaging Parliament where necessary.“I urge civil society groups to look at the bill and the various provisions of the bill, and if there are concerns, I believe that this House is a listening House and we can revisit some of the issues that they are concerned about,” he stated.Mr Ayariga maintained that the legislation had been carefully crafted to ensure the tribunal system operates fairly and efficiently without the excesses feared by some critics.“But for now, we believe that we have provided Ghana with the best framework for a tribunal system of administration of justice as one can possibly have,” he added.