In a move that has drawn sharp criticism, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban S. K. Bagbin, has suspended the approval of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of State approved by the Appointments Committee of Parliament.
The decision has been condemned by the Majority Caucus, who called it undemocratic and accused the Speaker of intentionally hindering the President and his government from receiving necessary assistance.
The Members of Parliament (MPs) from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) released a press statement expressing their concern over the Speaker’s actions.
They called on the public to denounce Bagbin’s decision, stating that it has negatively impacted the government’s work.
“The upshot is that Mr Speaker has torpedoed the Government’s work by depriving the President and Ghana of the able men and women who will assist him in running the Government machinery,” the press release stated.
The MPs also argued that it is the Speaker who is undermining democracy, not the President.
Furthermore, the NPP MPs condemned Bagbin for adjourning the House without consulting the House’s leadership.
They described this decision as arbitrary, capricious, and undemocratic, citing that the leadership of the House should guide the Speaker in conducting the House’s business.
The suspension of the approval process came on Wednesday, March 20, following a court application for an injunction against the process.
Speaker Alban Bagbin took this action in response to the pending court case.
As the public awaits further developments, the Speaker’s decision continues to be a topic of debate and concern among the Majority Caucus in Parliament.
Fine a copy of the Majority statement attached:
By Vincent Kubi