Majority Chief Whip criticizes Minority for boycotting proceedings
Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh has offered a defense for the frequent absence of some members of the NPP party from parliamentary sittings.
This comes after criticisms were raised by the NPP Majority when the Minority caucus announced their decision to boycott parliamentary proceedings.
Despite the NDC Minority’s absence, the NPP side has struggled to gather all its members to conduct government business, resulting in a hindered functioning of the House.
Parliamentary boycott
In response, Frank Annoh-Dompreh argued that it is common for not all Members of Parliament to be present in the chamber simultaneously, citing examples from the British parliament and other jurisdictions.
He stated that except for ceremonial occasions, it is rare to find a full house in any parliament.
He proudly stated on behalf of the Majority that they have successfully passed all the necessary legislation and important decisions by marshaling their numbers when needed.
He acknowledged that several members, particularly Ministers, are engaged in official duties or are on sick leave, which accounts for the low attendance on the Majority side.
Annoh-Dompreh criticized the Minority for boycotting parliamentary proceedings while still attending committee meetings.
He questioned their logic, emphasizing that committee meetings are part of Parliament, and accused them of being deceptive in their actions.
He urged the Minority to fully boycott Parliament if that is their decision, without selectively participating in certain aspects.
Background
In recent events, the NDC Parliamentary Minority boycotted parliamentary sittings in solidarity with their colleague,
Mr. James Gyakye Quayson, who is currently standing trial in court. The Minority Caucus informed the Speaker of Parliament that they would not participate in the House’s business on days when their colleagues standing trial were required to appear in court.
The trio includes Mr. James Gyakye Quayson, the MP for Assin North; Mr. Collins Dauda, the MP for Asutifi South; and Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Minority Leader and MP for Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam.
