Members of Parliament from both sides of the House are facing a major backlash over the ongoing controversy surrounding the majority-minority impasse.
The issue began when the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, declared four parliamentary seats vacant, effectively reducing the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) numbers and tilting the balance of power in favour of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
In response, the NPP Caucus staged a walkout and secured an injunction from the Supreme Court, which overturned Speaker Bagbin’s ruling.
However, the NDC has expressed opposition to the Supreme Court ruling, declaring their intentions to resist any attempt to alter their new status.
The situation took a dramatic turn when the Minority Caucus, led by its leadership, occupied the majority side of the house, prompting the NPP lawmakers to retreat to their offices.
The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, emphasized the NPP’s commitment to order and democracy, stating that they will not give in to the NDC’s “lawless platform”.
The NDC has accused the NPP of attempting to undermine democracy, while the NPP has called for calm and adherence to the rule of law.
The situation remains tense, with many Ghanaians worried about the implications for the country’s democratic process.
Meanwhile, Ghanaians are furious about the impasse that’s putting the approval of the appropriation bill, which funds salaries for next year, at risk.
Many are taking to social media to express their frustration, with some labelling MPs as “childish” and accusing them of not having the country’s best interests at heart.
Concerns from Citizens
Delayed or Unpaid Salaries: The potential inability to pay salaries for next year is a major concern for public sector workers and their families.
Some citizens are calling for MPs to put aside their differences and work towards finding a solution to the impasse. As one social media user put it, “Our lawmakers need to remember that they’re serving the people, not themselves. We need action, not politics!”
Here are some comments from frustrated Ghanaians regarding the parliamentary impasse:
Charles Blay: “Our leaders are more interested in their own power struggles than serving the people. When will they put Ghana first?”
Seth Xose: “This impasse is a shame. We need leaders who can work together for the good of the country, not just their own interests.”
Emma Tee: “How can we trust our leaders to make decisions for us when they can’t even agree among themselves? It’s time for a change.”
Jimmy Cartha: “The Speaker’s efforts to resolve the impasse are commendable, but it’s time for more drastic action. We need leaders who will put Ghana’s interests above their own.”
These comments reflect the growing frustration among Ghanaians with the ongoing parliamentary impasse and its potential impact on the country’s development.
It’s clear that Ghanaians are fed up with the parliamentary stalemate and want their lawmakers to take action