Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has issued an apology to Ghanaians following the government's attempt to amend the Road Traffic Regulations. The proposed changes, which would have allowed Members of Parliament (MPs) and state officials to use sirens and be exempt from speed limits, sparked significant public outcry.

Initially, Bagbin disclaimed any knowledge of the legislative instrument's introduction in the house. However, in a formal communication to the house on Monday, he acknowledged the controversy and expressed regret for the situation.

"Following the opposition's firm stance against the legislative instrument, the government has decided to withdraw the proposed amendments. We recognize the public perception of insensitivity, and I am here to offer an apology and assure the Ghanaian people that this parliament remains acutely aware of and responsive to their needs," Bagbin stated.

To prevent such issues in the future, Bagbin announced the institution of new standing orders for a pre-laying process in the introduction of a legislative instrument. This process is designed to ensure a thorough review before it is officially laid in the house.

"Parliament has empowered the subsidiary legislative committee with a critical mandate," he said. "The committee's responsibilities, set out under Order 220, include ensuring that proposed subsidiary legislation aligns with the constitution, Acts of Parliament, and other laws; detecting any potential inconsistencies, ambiguities, or concerns in the proposed legislation; and offering inputs and recommendations to refine and improve the proposed legislation."

He further emphasized, "Recognizing the importance of thorough scrutiny, parliament has instituted a pre-laying process. This process mandates that the relevant person intending to lay the legislative instrument or constitutional instrument engage with the subsidiary legislation committee for a comprehensive review before the instrument is officially laid before parliament."

This move is aimed at enhancing the legislative process and ensuring that proposed laws are meticulously examined and aligned with public interest.