Parliament Passes Tribunals Bill, 2026 After Heated Debate

Parliament has approved the Tribunals Bill, 2026, following its third reading and a vote by lawmakers on Thursday, July 16.

The passage clears the way for the return of tribunals under a new legal framework intended to improve justice delivery and make legal remedies more accessible.

The Bill will now be sent to President John Dramani Mahama for assent.

Proceedings were tense as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, moved for the third reading on the same day. He asked the Speaker to waive the rule in Order 172, sub-order 1 of the Standing Orders, which requires at least one sitting day between consideration stage and third reading.

“May I move that, notwithstanding the provision in Order 172, sub-order 1 of the Standing Orders... the motion for the third reading of the Tribunals Bill, 2026 may be moved today. I so move, Mr Speaker,” Dr. Ayine said.

After the third reading, the House approved the Bill, completing Parliament’s role in the legislative process.

Dr. Ayine had introduced the Bill earlier this year, saying it was meant to tackle delays in the courts, widen access to justice, and re-establish tribunals with proper constitutional safeguards.

The Bill was later sent to the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee and the Judiciary Committee for detailed scrutiny before returning to the House.

With Parliament’s approval secured, the new tribunal system will take effect once the President signs the Bill into law.