By Boakye Stephen, Kumasi, Ghana | Reporting for Ghanaian News, Canada | May 30, 2026
Communications Minister Samuel George has maintained that the bill is intended to establish a legal foundation for digital governance, while operational matters such as funding structures and implementation mechanisms will be outlined through a Legislative Instrument after parliamentary approval.
Responding to criticism from some technology stakeholders, he argued that substantive legislation is not designed to contain every operational detail.
“Derek made an issue… that the bill doesn’t show where investments will come in. Respectfully, it’s a legislation.”
He explained that questions relating to investments and financing would be addressed after the bill becomes law.
“After the legislation is passed, we will then come to Parliament with an L.I. The L.I. will flesh it out.”
According to the Minister, legislation establishes policy direction, while subsidiary regulations define the practical methods of implementation.
“The bill is the what. The L.I. that will follow the passage of the bill is the how.”
He further rejected calls for operational provisions to be embedded within the parent legislation.
“You can’t expect us to begin to deal with how funding and things will come in a bill, a parent substantive bill. That’s not how laws are made.”
While acknowledging concerns from industry players, he insisted established parliamentary procedures would be followed.
“Yes, I hear the tech industry, but we will not rewrite the rules because that is what there’s a way laws are made in this country.”
The proposed legislation continues to attract attention from technology entrepreneurs, digital rights advocates, and industry groups seeking additional consultations before its eventual passage.
Commentary | Boakye Stephen
The NITA Bill debate reflects the broader challenge of regulating a rapidly evolving digital economy. While government insists existing legislative procedures must be respected, stakeholders are demanding greater certainty regarding compliance obligations, investment opportunities, and regulatory oversight. The Legislative Instrument promised by the Ministry may ultimately determine whether industry concerns are satisfactorily addressed.
