The vetting process for ministerial nominees took a dramatic turn on yesterday 30th January, 2025 when the Minority in Parliament staged a protest against what they described as a breach of prior agreements by the Majority.
The standoff began after the vetting of Transport Minister nominee Joseph Bukari Nikpe. According to the Minority, both sides had initially agreed to vet only three nominees, but when four were presented, they did not object. However, tensions escalated when the Majority allegedly made further unilateral changes to the vetting schedule.
The Minority reminded the Chairman of the committee about the initial agreement and proposed adjourning the vetting to Friday, citing concerns over the day’s proceedings. The Majority, however, rejected the proposal, insisting that the process should continue. This led to a heated disagreement, with the Minority accusing the Majority of attempting to force through additional vetting beyond what had been agreed upon.
By 10 PM, frustration had peaked, and the Minority staged their protest, refusing to continue with the process. The Majority, on the other hand, blamed the delay on the Ranking Member, claiming he had spent close to three hours on a single nominee, thereby slowing the process.
This latest impasse highlights the growing tension between the two sides, with the Minority standing firm against what they perceive as an attempt to sideline their input in the vetting process.
