The Minority caucus in Parliament has urged the Majority to accept their new status following the Speaker of Parliament’s controversial decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant, sparking a strong reaction from the Majority.
Led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority staged a walkout on Thursday, October 17, in protest of the ruling, which affected MPs Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kwadjo Asante (Suhum), Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central), and Andrew Asiamah (Fomena).
While the first three MPs plan to contest the 2024 elections as independent candidates, Asiamah has opted to run under the NPP ticket.
The Speaker’s decision, grounded in constitutional provisions, asserts that by declaring their independent candidacies or switching parties, the MPs have effectively vacated their seats in Parliament.
As a result, the balance of power has shifted, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) now holding 136 seats, compared to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 135, making the NDC the majority caucus.
This ruling has sparked debate and uncertainty about how Parliament will operate under the new dynamics.
First Deputy Minority Whip, Ahmed Ibrahim expressed disappointment in the Majority’s reaction and urged their leadership to respect the Speaker’s decision and focus on parliamentary business.
He also questioned the logic behind the Majority’s refusal to acknowledge the clear shift in numbers.
Mr. Ibrahim emphasized the absurdity of their claim to retain majority status despite the NDC now holding the upper hand.
Source: Adomonline
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