The Minority Caucus in Parliament has staged a walkout in protest over the Majority Leader’s actions, which they described as “insensitive” and “premature”, following the passing of the Late Member of Parliament for the Akwatia constituency, Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi.
This was after the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, impressed on Speaker Bagbin to clarify the operationalisation of constitutional provisions regarding the declaration of vacant seats in the event of the death of a member.
According to him, the announcement of the death of the MP on the floor by the Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markin, in the absence of the Speaker, and a subsequent visit by members and leaders of the House, in the company of the Clerk, to the residence of the late MP, where his death was confirmed, further compounds the arising legal concerns.
Addressing the press, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Member of Parliament for the Weija Gbawe constituency, expressed deep sadness and disappointment over the Majority Leader’s call for a by-election in Akwatia, saying it showed a lack of empathy for the deceased member’s family and colleagues.
“We are extremely sad and disappointed by the Majority Leader’s actions. It’s very sad that all he can think about is political gain, even in the midst of our grief,” Hon. Shaib said.
The Minority Caucus disputed claims that the NPP has already prepared posters for the by-election, calling it “untrue”. They emphasised that their walkout was not a sign of disrespect to the Speaker, but rather a protest against the Majority Leader’s actions.
“We urge the Majority Leader to be more sensitive and considerate in their actions, out of respect for the Ghanaian people and the parliamentary institution,” Hon. Shaib added.
The Minority Caucus questioned the Majority Leader’s priorities and sense of camaraderie, wondering if they truly care about their colleagues and the well-being of the deceased member’s family.
This latest development highlights the deep-seated tensions between the Majority and Minority caucuses in Parliament, with the Minority Caucus determined to hold the Majority Leader accountable for their actions.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana