In a renewed criticism of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has condemned the absence of NPP Members of Parliament from a critical parliamentary session, stressing the importance of maintaining decorum and respect in the legislative process. His comments come in response to remarks made by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who characterized Speaker Alban Bagbin as a “superintendent of chaos” after Bagbin’s decision to adjourn parliamentary proceedings indefinitely due to procedural shortcomings.
During a recent press conference, Ablakwa defended Speaker Bagbin’s decision, citing the absence of necessary order papers and committee reports as valid reasons for adjournment. He pointed out that without these documents, MPs would be left idle, wasting valuable time they could otherwise dedicate to serving their constituents. “The Speaker followed Constitutional protocol, convening Parliament upon receiving the notice with your signatures to trigger the recall. He waited for you for more than an hour, yet you didn’t show up,” Ablakwa said, emphasizing that the Speaker acted in line with established procedures and should not be disparaged for it.
Ablakwa also took aim at Afenyo-Markin’s comments, calling them “caustic” and demanding an apology to the Speaker. According to Ablakwa, the NPP’s actions were counterproductive and represented a “Tom and Jerry” style of politicking that detracts from the serious work Parliament must accomplish. “In the midst of our national crisis, this back-and-forth, these ‘Tom and Jerry games,’ and childish theatrics will do nothing to help,” he stated, urging all MPs to prioritize their duty to the Ghanaian people over partisan maneuvering.
The North Tongu MP also addressed the logistical hurdles faced by MPs who made extensive efforts to attend the session, including some who had to travel through neighboring Togo due to the conflict in Bawku. “Some of our colleagues have to navigate through Togo to come to parliament due to the nature of the Bawku conflict just to be present at the recall,” Ablakwa highlighted, emphasizing the commitment of MPs who made these sacrifices only to find the NPP caucus absent.
In a surprising turn, Ablakwa praised Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong for his “maturity, honesty, and truthfulness” in acknowledging the NPP caucus’ mistake and suggesting they should have at least notified Speaker Bagbin of their internal meeting. Agyapong’s stance, according to Ablakwa, demonstrated a level of responsibility and respect for parliamentary protocol that other NPP members should emulate.
The incident reflects ongoing friction between the majority and minority parties in Ghana’s Parliament, underscoring the challenges facing the legislative body as it attempts to navigate complex political and national issues. Ablakwa’s call for an apology from Afenyo-Markin and his praise of Agyapong’s integrity suggest a desire for a more respectful and collaborative atmosphere in Parliament. As Ghana faces pressing challenges, Ablakwa argues that Parliament cannot afford to be a stage for “childish theatrics” but must serve as a platform for constructive governance.
Source : m.dailyadvent.com
