Tensions flared between Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Chairman of the Parliamentary Assurance Committee, and Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Works and Housing Minister, over a controversial remark made during a discussion on the delays in completing housing units for victims of the Akosombo dam spillage.
Ablakwa demanded that Oppong Nkrumah retract and apologize for referring to his role as a “bully pulpit.” Ablakwa deemed the Minister’s comment inappropriate and insisted on a formal apology.
In response, Oppong Nkrumah questioned whether he was not entitled to defend himself against the accusations made. He expressed concern about being accused of insincerity and deflecting without being allowed to respond or present a different perspective.
Ablakwa, however, maintained that a retraction and apology were necessary, emphasizing that he was acting within his rights according to parliamentary standing orders. He cautioned the Minister to be mindful of his language.
“Honourable Minister, you will be well advised to watch your diction. You will be well advised. I will not take that. To suggest that I am using this position as a bully pulpit is unacceptable.”
“You must retract and apologize because that is not what I am doing here. I am well within my standing orders,” Ablakwa asserted.
Oppong Nkrumah, however, reiterated his right to respond, stating, “If you choose to accuse me of insincerity, of introducing red herrings, or of deflecting, then I must have the right to respond.”
