The Minority in Parliament has expressed strong objections to the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, for unilaterally recalling Parliament despite knowing the scheduled reconvening date. Minority Chief Whip Kwame Governs Agbodza criticized the recall, stating that it was not done in good faith.
Agbodza questioned the urgency of the recall, citing the list of businesses to be addressed, including university establishments and tax waivers, which he did not consider emergency situations. He expressed surprise at the Majority Leader’s reaction, calling it “needless” and highlighting the inconvenience it poses to parliamentary candidates with upcoming nominations and pre-campaign activities.
Agbodza pointed out that the Minority side has consistently had more members present in the chamber, making it challenging for the Majority to meet the quorum. Despite the Minority’s objections, Speaker Alban Sumana Bagbin has agreed to the recall, scheduling an emergency session for Tuesday, September 3.
This recall follows the indefinite adjournment of the session on July 30, 2024, and has sparked a heated debate between the Majority and Minority leaders. Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh disagreed with his colleague, supporting the recall and emphasizing the importance of addressing critical government business before the election campaign period.
Annoh-Dompreh acknowledged the exhaustion of members but stressed the necessity of the recall, urging cooperation between both sides to resolve the matter. The recall has set the stage for a potentially contentious emergency session, with the Majority and Minority sides holding differing views on the urgency and necessity of the recall.
