By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, Aug 09, GNA – Mr Alex K. Agyekum, a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpohor, has called on Parliament to resist alleged growing tensions, intolerance, and political divisions following the change in Majority Leadership.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Mr Agyekum to the Ghana News Agency, it warned “that the House must not descend into “chaos, confusion, and needless political confrontation.”
The statement expressed concern that alleged commentary on social media was already creating divisions between the Majority and Minority caucuses.
It cautioned that such narratives could undermine public confidence in the institution.
“The incoming majority leader must remain focused on the constitutional mandate of Parliament and not be distracted by needless propaganda aimed at undermining the sanctity of the institution,” it said.
The statement also 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.
“Parliament must remain a place where laws are made and the activities of the executive are effectively scrutinised,” it stressed.
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,” it added.
Mr Agyekum questioned whether a deeply polarised House, where the two caucuses were constantly at odds, could adequately debate such critical constitutional matters.
“Can a Parliament where both sides are constantly at odds deliver the superior arguments and consensus required in the national interest?” he asked.
To that end, Mr Ageykum challenged Mr James Agalga, the new Majority Leader, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business 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,” the statement said.
The statement further cautioned against what it described as an alleged growing social media narrative portraying an impending showdown between the two caucuses.
It described such framing as counterproductive and urged leadership on both sides to prioritise “the dignity, stability, and constitutional responsibilities of Parliament” above partisan interests.
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.
GNA
Edited by Bennjamin Mensah
Reporter: Elsie Appiah-Osei, GNA
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]