Ghana’s parliamentary proceedings have been marred by tension and disagreement between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) over who should occupy the Majority side of the Chamber.
The dispute began on October 17 when Speaker Alban Bagbin declared four parliamentary seats vacant, prompting the NDC to claim a majority with 136 seats. This decision was contested by the NPP in the Supreme Court, which granted a stay of execution.
In response to the developing situation, NPP Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin addressed the media on Tuesday, October 22. He explained that the NPP’s decision to retreat to their offices earlier that day was a strategic move to avoid confrontation and chaos.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the NPP would not engage in disorderly conduct or disrupt the peace in Ghana. He accused the NDC of attempting to provoke the NPP into a physical altercation, aimed at destabilizing the country’s peace.
According to Afenyo-Markin, the NDC’s actions were a deliberate attempt to create chaos and disorder in Parliament. He stated that the NPP would not give the NDC the opportunity to be lawless or disturb the peace of Ghana.
The Majority Leader reaffirmed the NPP’s commitment to acting responsibly and awaiting a directive from Speaker Alban Bagbin before making any further moves. He emphasized that the NPP’s tradition is built on being law-abiding and peaceful.
Afenyo-Markin expressed concern for innocent Ghanaians going about their daily business, particularly those in academia. He stressed that the NPP understands the importance of politics but will conduct itself in a civil manner.
“We will not allow anybody to disturb the peace of this country,” Afenyo-Markin declared. “NPP is a peaceful party, and we will maintain that peace.”
The NPP’s stance has been reinforced by its members, who have vowed to prioritize peace and stability in Ghana’s parliamentary proceedings.
The situation remains volatile, with the NPP committed to maintaining peace and civility. The Supreme Court’s ruling on the disputed parliamentary seats is eagerly awaited, and its decision will likely have significant implications for Ghana’s political landscape.
As the standoff continues, Ghanaians are watching anxiously, hoping for a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the nation’s stability and democratic principles.
