NDC Caucus Rejects NPP’s Petition to Recall Parliament Ahead of Elections

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus in Parliament has turned down a request by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus to convene Parliament for urgent government business, citing inadequate grounds and poor timing with just 11 days to the general elections.

NDC Leader in Parliament, Cassiel Ato Forson, outlined that the petition failed to satisfy constitutional and procedural requirements. Specifically, it lacked the endorsement of at least 15% of Members of Parliament, as required by Article 112(3) of the Constitution and Standing Order 53(1).

Forson further dismissed claims of urgency, arguing that the proposed agenda could wait until after the December 7 elections. He warned that convening Parliament at this juncture would disrupt critical electoral preparations, including campaign efforts, training of polling agents, and finalizing logistical arrangements.

History of Similar Initiatives

This petition marks yet another attempt by the NPP caucus to call an emergency sitting this year. On November 7, a similar effort failed when the NPP could not muster enough MPs to meet the required quorum, resulting in an indefinite adjournment.

The NDC leader suggested that a leadership meeting be held after the elections to resolve pending matters, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing peaceful, transparent, and credible elections.

Background of the Dispute

Tensions between the two parties have heightened over what the NDC perceives as the NPP’s attempt to rush significant legislation without adequate consultation or debate. Forson accused the NPP of undermining Ghana’s democratic process and exacerbating pre-election tensions with these initiatives.

The recall petition is seen as a politically strategic maneuver by the NPP, which the NDC views as a ploy to push through legislation that could influence the electoral landscape to their advantage.

Implications of the Boycott

The NDC’s decision to reject the recall could delay the passage of several important bills, including those tied to contentious policies like the Free SHS program. The NPP has criticized the NDC for obstructing parliamentary processes, while the NDC has countered that such measures are necessary to uphold democratic integrity.

With elections imminent, this standoff signals escalating tensions between the two parties. The NDC appears committed to preventing the NPP from using parliamentary procedures to secure political advantages, setting the stage for an intense contest as the nation heads to the polls.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com