Reconsider the decision to boycott parliament – Rasheed to Minority.
Rasheed Draman, the Executive Director of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), is urging the Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) to reconsider their
decision to boycott parliamentary sessions in solidarity with three of their colleagues who are facing prosecution.
He emphasizes the crucial role that the minority plays in parliament and expresses concern that their continued absence will hinder their mandate of representing their constituents.
Rasheed Draman
Dr. Rasheed Draman emphasizes the importance of the minority’s presence in the house for effective oversight, citing examples such as the E-levy and other bills that require their participation.
He highlights that the Majority Leader has indicated that key decisions may be made without the minority if they continue to be absent.
He raises the concern that such decisions, without the minority’s involvement, will have binding consequences for the country and may negatively impact Ghanaians.
He calls for a reevaluation of the boycott strategy and suggests that a conversation within the leadership is necessary to find a resolution.
Dr. Draman’s remarks come in response to the Speaker’s rejection of the minority’s request to have their names recorded as absent with permission during their boycotts.
The caucus argued that their absence should be accurately captured as a boycott to avoid giving the impression that they are neglecting their responsibilities in parliament.
Hon. Okudzeto submission
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the MP for North Tongu, expressed the need for their absence to be properly documented to maintain accurate records and to clarify that their actions are a deliberate boycott rather than a mere absence.
He highlighted previous instances where walkouts and boycotts were recorded in the vote and proceedings.
Overall, Dr. Draman and the minority MPs are encouraging a reconsideration of the boycott strategy, emphasizing the importance of their presence in parliament and the potential consequences of their continued absence.
