The Executive Director of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. Rasheed Draman, has cautioned the Majority in Parliament against abusing their two-thirds dominance.
He warned that such control could lead to constitutional overreach, rubber-stamping of legislation, and the marginalization of minority voices.
His remarks come in the wake of Ewurabena Aubynn’s swearing-in as the new Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North—an event that further consolidates the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) commanding majority in the legislature.
Speaking to Citi News on July 23, 2025, Dr. Draman urged the Majority to wield its numerical strength with responsibility and to prioritise the integrity of Parliament.
“These numbers can be used as a force for good—to deepen our democratic practice, improve parliamentary processes, and drive transformative reforms that enhance the image and performance of Parliament,” he stated.
“But if they are used as a force for mischief, we risk seeing constitutional abuse, weakened oversight, and a silenced opposition—typical risks associated with unchecked super majorities.”
His concerns were echoed by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who also warned NDC MPs not to use their dominance to suppress the Minority.
“We should not use the overwhelming majority to try to bully or stifle the Minority from having their say on the floor of Parliament,” the Speaker cautioned.
Underscoring the need for inclusive leadership, Speaker Bagbin called on the Majority side—currently led by the NDC—to rise above partisanship and act in the national interest.
“When given this mandate, you must act as the father and mother of the nation,” he said. “You must have the patience and tolerance to listen to the other side.”
by: Christopher Kevin Asima, Citi NewsRoom