Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu in the Volta Region, has expressed support for Speaker Alban Sumana Bagbin’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant.
In an interview with the media, Ablakwa emphasized that Bagbin was simply following a precedent set by the current government, pointing out that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) had previously taken similar actions under Speaker Mike Oquaye.
Ablakwa criticized the NPP for what he sees as hypocrisy and double standards, questioning why they are now upset when they were content with similar actions during Speaker Oquaye’s tenure. He stressed that parliament operates on three main principles: the constitution, standing orders, and conventions, and that these should be upheld consistently.
He further noted that the declaration of the seats vacant presents a significant opportunity for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to correct issues, particularly the high taxes imposed by the current government.
Ablakwa remarked that the NDC, which previously only had a say, now has the chance to make impactful changes.
Additionally, he mentioned that the weekend would be busy for NDC MPs, as they plan to consult with the party on selecting a second deputy speaker and appointing chairpersons for various parliamentary committees.
Story by: Onokwafo Yaw Asiedu/Ahotoronline.com
