The African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) has expressed concerns over the ongoing vetting process for ministerial nominees, describing it as unsatisfactory. ACEPA contends that the conduct of members from both sides of Parliament has hindered the process, preventing a thorough interrogation of nominees on critical national issues.
Speaking to Citi News, Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director of ACEPA, called for a reassessment of the Appointments Committee’s approach to ensure the vetting process serves its intended purpose. According to Dr Draman, there is a need to revisit the operational framework of the Appointments Committee to enhance its effectiveness. He added that the current approach does not allow for the rigorous examination of nominees on pressing matters affecting the country.
“I think this process has been very unsatisfactory. There is a need for some serious rethinking about how the Appointments Committee conducts its business. We see, first of all, Members of Parliament, particularly those from the Minority, missing a very important opportunity to exact accountability from nominees.
“They focus on trivial issues, issues that are not speaking to the competence, the integrity, and the fit of the person to the ministry or department that he or she is going to.
“On the side of the members of the Majority, I think they have turned this whole process into some kind of friendly match. I mean, it is their colleagues from the same party, but I think we still have to take this business very seriously.”
ACEPA’s remarks follow public criticism of the vetting process, with many observers urging Parliament to prioritize substance over partisan interests during these crucial deliberations.
By Fauza Masawudu, Citi News Room