In a significant development in Ghana’s Parliament, the ‘NDC Majority Caucus’ has urged Speaker Alban Bagbin to dismiss a recall request initiated by Members of Parliament (MPs) from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Apexnewsgh reports
The call came in a memo submitted on Monday, November 25, and was signed by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the leader of the NDC Caucus.
Dr. Forson articulated their stance, stating that the NPP’s request did not adhere to the constitutional and procedural guidelines outlined in Article 112(3) and Standing Order 53(1) of Parliament.
He emphasized that it was ultimately up to Speaker Bagbin to decide whether to approve or reject the recall, particularly since the required threshold had not been met.
In the memo, Dr. Forson implored the Speaker to exercise his discretion wisely, arguing that the NPP’s petition was inconsistent with Parliament’s regulations.
He pointed out that there were no compelling reasons presented to justify the urgent reconvening of the House. “Respectfully, Mr. Speaker, we wish to submit that based on the petitioner’s own request, you are not obliged to recall Parliament,” he noted.
Dr. Forson also criticized the NPP for failing to demonstrate any pressing emergencies or urgent government matters that would necessitate recalling Parliament, especially with just eleven days remaining before the crucial 2024 General Election.
The backdrop to this heated exchange began on November 22, when NPP MPs formally petitioned Speaker Bagbin for an immediate recall to address what they claimed were critical government issues. However, the NDC Caucus’s response illustrates the ongoing tensions and disagreement over the necessity and legal basis for such a move in Parliament, setting the stage for further political debates as the election approaches.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
