Accra, March. 20, GNA - Parliament is expected to begin the approval of the annual budget estimates of government ministries, departments and agencies before going on recess next Friday. The House is also expected to pass the Appropriation Bill, 2009 and may, if the need arises, sit on Saturday March 28, to facilitate the completion of its schedule, Deputy Majority Leader, Mr John Tia said when he presented the business agenda for next week on the floor of the House on Friday.

Later, Members of Parliament (MPs) in contributions to a statement, congratulated the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu 11, on the occasion of the tenth anniversary celebrations of his enstoolment. Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, NPP MP for Kwadaso, who made the statement on the floor, said the Asantehene had succeeded in transforming the image of the chieftaincy institution through his programmes and policies which had brought dignity and respect to the institution. He touched on his contributions to educating the youth and the provision of other social services to many in and out of the Ashanti kingdom.

Dr Akoto also commended other chiefs for their contributions to development such as the Okyehene in the area of the environment and Togbe Afede, in energy generation.

Mr Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Communications, in his contributions to the statement, said the Asantehene had promoted national unity, peace and cohesion and had shown commitment in efforts to bring peace to the Dagbon area. Mr Kwaku Agyemang-Manu, NPP MP for Dormaa West, on his part said the Asantehene had never meddled in politics or shown support for any political party and had therefore conducted himself well.

Others MPs also added their voice in commending the Otumfuo for his exemplary life and service to the nation and wished him well on the occasion of the celebration of his tenth anniversary.