Accra: Mr Frederick Gilbert Andy, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Suaman, has called on the NDC Majority Caucus in Parliament to adopt a consensus-building approach to facilitate government business. He noted that past attempts by the Majority Caucus to dominate the Minority Caucus during the recent ministerial vetting have been counterproductive, and a collaborative effort is necessary for progress.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Andy, in a media interview, responded to the recent disruptions in Parliament during the ministerial vetting process. He emphasized the Minority Caucus’s willingness to cooperate with the Majority in advancing government business, provided there is mutual respect between both sides. Mr Andy warned that the Minority Caucus would oppose any attempts by the Majority to intimidate them.
Addressing concerns raised by the Majority Caucus regarding the extensive questioning by the Minority Ranking on the Appointment Committee, Alexander Afenyo Markin, during the vetting, Mr Andy highlighted a precedent. He reminded that during the 8th Parliament, the NDC Minority Caucus spent two days vetting Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, the then Finance Minister-designate. He stressed that thorough vetting is part of Parliament’s oversight role to ensure that competent individuals are appointed to serve in various sectors.
Mr Andy urged the Majority Caucus on the Appointment Committee to exercise restraint to ensure smooth government operations. The call came after a clash last Thursday, January 28, between the Majority and Minority Caucuses over the number of ministerial nominees to be vetted. The Majority sought to vet two additional nominees after completing five for the day, which the Minority opposed, arguing it exceeded the agreed number and that it was too late, at 2200 hours, to continue, given their fatigue.
The disagreement led to chaos, with some MPs overturning tables and damaging microphones, underscoring the need for a more collaborative approach to parliamentary proceedings.