NDC MPs ready to return if Speaker issues recall – Mahama Ayariga
23rd October 2024
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has assured that National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament are fully prepared to return to Parliament if Speaker Alban Bagbin issues a recall for parliamentary proceedings.
This assurance follows the indefinite adjournment of Parliament on Tuesday, October 22, after a contentious session between the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over which party holds the majority in the House.
Speaking during an interview on Citi FM, Mr Ayariga emphasised the NDC’s readiness to respond immediately to the Speaker’s call.
He highlighted that NDC MPs are committed to fulfilling their legislative responsibilities despite the ongoing political tensions and divisions between the two parties.
Mr Ayariga noted that, the willingness of NDC MPs to return to the Chamber reflects their dedication to ensuring the continuity of Ghana’s governance process.
He stressed that, regardless of the standoff, they would promptly resume their duties when directed by the Speaker, demonstrating their commitment to serving the nation.
The adjournment of Parliament came after sharp disagreements between the NDC and NPP over who occupies the majority side of the Chamber.
According to Mr Ayariga, the NPP was significantly underrepresented during the session, with fewer than 30 members present.
He accused the NPP of not taking parliamentary business seriously and lacking the necessary preparedness.
Additionally, Mr Ayariga criticised the actions of NPP MPs, suggesting that their disruption of proceedings was part of a broader plan led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
He implied that Afenyo-Markin, the former Majority Leader, was attempting to maintain his position and influence within the House by creating confusion during the session.
Despite the political standoff, Ayariga reaffirmed that the NDC MPs are prepared to return to the Chamber when the Speaker recalls them.
He reiterated the party’s commitment to ensuring the smooth running of parliamentary business and fulfilling their legislative responsibilities for the benefit of the country.
“Many of them [the NPP MPs] are in their constituencies campaigning and so anytime the Speaker calls us, we will come and anytime the Speaker says we are the Minority, we will listen to him, but he hasn’t said that,” Mr Ayariga said.