A bitter dispute has erupted in Ghana’s Parliament, with Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accusing the Minority caucus of deliberately sabotaging the payment of public servants’ salaries. This comes after Speaker Alban Bagbin adjourned the House indefinitely due to a lack of business to discuss.
The controversy began when the Majority caucus initiated a recall session to address critical issues, but their MPs failed to show up. Speaker Bagbin expressed disappointment, stating that their absence stalled proceedings. Meanwhile, Minority MPs occupied the Majority side of the chamber, forcing Majority MPs to remain outside.
Afenyo-Markin alleges that the Minority is conspiring with Speaker Bagbin to block key legislation, including the Free Senior High School (SHS) bill. He warns that public servants might not receive their salaries if the impasse isn’t resolved soon, as the government’s agenda, including Free SHS and salary payments, could be delayed without budget approval before the next parliamentary session.
Key Concerns:
- Payment of Public Servants: Afenyo-Markin warns that salaries might not be paid if the impasse continues.
- Free SHS Bill: The Minority is accused of trying to block the passage of this critical legislation.
- Budget Approval: The government’s agenda, including salary payments, could be delayed without budget approval.
The parliamentary tensions have been ongoing, with disagreements between the Majority and Minority caucuses over which side holds the majority. The indefinite adjournment leaves the legislative agenda in flux, with uncertainty surrounding when Parliament will reconvene to address the stalled issues.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
