Former MP Tells MPs to Put Politics Aside
Alex K. Agyekum, a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpohor, has issued a statement to the Ghana News Agency warning Parliament against descending into chaos, confusion, and needless political confrontation. The statement was issued on Sunday.
Tensions in Parliament
The statement expressed concern that alleged commentary on social media was creating divisions between the Majority and Minority caucuses. Mr Agyekum warned that such narratives could undermine public confidence in the institution.
Parliament must remain a place where laws are made and the activities of the executive are effectively scrutinised, Mr Agyekum stressed. He urged Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, and the leadership of Parliament to maintain neutrality and ensure that proceedings were conducted strictly in accordance with the Standing Orders and the Constitution.
Building Consensus
Mr Agyekum questioned whether a deeply polarised House, where the two caucuses were constantly at odds, could adequately debate critical constitutional matters. He challenged Mr James Agalga, the new Majority Leader, to prioritise building consensus across both sides of the House.
The focus should be on ensuring that the best constitutional amendment options are considered, rather than allowing Parliament to be dominated by acrimonious exchanges, entrenched positions, and boycotts, Mr Agyekum said. He urged leadership on both sides to prioritise the dignity, stability, and constitutional responsibilities of Parliament above partisan interests.
Constitutional Amendments
Mr Agyekum noted that the need for tolerance and constructive engagement was particularly critical as Parliament prepared to consider the non-entrenched provisions of the Constitution recommended by the Constitution Review Committee. Government has already issued a position paper on the matter, he added.
Mr Agyekum questioned whether a Parliament where both sides are constantly at odds could deliver the superior arguments and consensus required in the national interest. He asked, "Can a Parliament where both sides are constantly at odds deliver the superior arguments and consensus required in the national interest?"
Background
Mr Agyekum was a former Chairman of the Youth and Sports Committee of Parliament and previously served on Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and the Education Committee during his tenure in Parliament. His statement comes as Parliament faces a change in Majority Leadership, which has sparked tensions and divisions between the two caucuses.
The statement by Mr Agyekum is a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining a stable and functional Parliament. As Parliament prepares to consider critical constitutional amendments, it is crucial that Members of Parliament put politics aside and work towards finding common ground.
Source: Joy Online
