The Executive Director of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), Dr. Rasheed Draman has stated that the current power dynamics in Parliament could benefit the citizens of Ghana as it will force members of the House to work together.
His remarks come after the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, declared four seats in the House vacant.
The constituencies and the lawmakers affected by the Speaker’s ruling are:
1. Cynthia Morrison, the current NPP MP for Agona West constituency in the Central Region, who has filed to run as an independent candidate.
2. Kwadwo Asante, the current NPP MP for the Suhum constituency in the Eastern Region, who has also filed to run as an independent candidate.
3. Andrew Asiamah Amoako, currently an independent MP for the Fomena constituency in the Ashanti Region, who has filed to run in the upcoming election as a candidate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
4. Peter Kwakye-Ackah, Amefi Central, NDC.
With this ruling, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) now has 136 while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has 35 seats. This renders the NDC as the Majority Caucus in Parliament.
Speaking on Hot Edition with Alfred Ocansey on 3FM on October 17, Dr. Draman explained that the 8th Parliament has offered important lessons.
“Having parties forced to collaborate can only benefit the citizens of the country,” Dr. Dramani said, adding that the current situation serves as a crucial lesson for political parties.
He emphasized that allowing the will of the people to prevail at all times strengthens democracy, highlighting that compromise and cooperation are vital for effective governance.
This shift, he suggested, could lead to more productive and inclusive legislative processes that better reflect the interests of all Ghanaians.
Source: 3News
By Christabel Success Treve (NSS)