The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to apologize to Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, for referring to him as the “superintendent of chaos.”
Afenyo-Markin made the comment during a press conference at Parliament House after Speaker Bagbin adjourned proceedings indefinitely.
Ablakwa defended the Speaker’s decision, pointing out that the adjournment followed the absence of the committee responsible for the rescheduled session and the lack of order papers, leaving no reason for MPs to remain in the chamber.
Ablakwa argued that MPs have important commitments in their constituencies, stating, “Afenyo-Markin used harsh language, calling us warlords and accusing the Speaker of managing chaos. But was it the Speaker who told you [NPP MPs] not to attend?”
He emphasized that the Speaker was following constitutional procedure by convening Parliament based on the signatures submitted by the Majority.
“The Speaker waited for over an hour for you, yet you didn’t show up. Afenyo-Markin should apologize to the Speaker instead of criticizing him,” he added.
Ablakwa condemned the actions of the NPP caucus as “childish,” likening their behavior to a “Tom and Jerry” game that undermines the credibility of Parliament. He also pointed out the significant costs involved in recalling Parliament, especially when renovations require renting private facilities, leading to financial waste.
“In the midst of a national crisis, these back-and-forth antics, these ‘Tom and Jerry games,’ and childish theatrics won’t help. You don’t show up in the chamber, only to sit on the sidelines and criticize us once we leave,” he said.
Ablakwa commended Kennedy Agyapong as the only NPP member who demonstrated “maturity, honesty, and truthfulness” by acknowledging the NPP caucus’s mistake and suggesting they should have informed the Speaker about their meeting.
