Some members of the Minority Caucus of the New Patriotic Party
The Minority Caucus of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Parliament appears to be gradually making a mark in the minds of ordinary Ghanaians through some of their decisions.
Despite having a fraction of parliamentary presence than initially anticipated, which many believed would render them ineffective or silent, they have defied all odds and expectations.
While some argue that the reduced number of NPP seats in Parliament would hinder their influence on state affairs and decision-making, the caucus, true to their self-description as the ‘Mighty Minority,’ continues to be a formidable opponent in certain instances.
Notable among such instances have been their boycotts of key events. In, as much as, many will argue that their boycotts may not necessarily affect business in the grand scheme of affairs, their every move, one way or the other, does not represent the interests of the people they represent in Parliament.
As a reflection on this, here are three occasions the NPP has boycotted state events since the commencement of the 9th Parliament of Ghana.
Parliamentary Orientation
The Minority Caucus opted to boycott a three-day orientation program organised for members of the 9th Parliament.
They cited concerns over the program’s cost and the lack of engagement with them regarding the venue selection process as their reason.
Additionally, they expressed the view that the choice of venue, the Volta Serene Hotel, was politically motivated.
This decision has sparked criticism from the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, who has described their reasons as ‘totally unacceptable.’
According to him, politicians must prioritise the national interest and to rise above their political differences.
Probe into Chaos During Vetting
The Minority Caucus once again became a subject of public discussions when they refused to appear before the ad-hoc committee investigating the chaotic events that occurred in Parliament during the vetting of certain ministerial nominees.
They stated they would only participate once the Speaker of Parliament addressed concerns of bias raised against the ad-hoc committee chairman, Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah.
They further accused the Speaker of Parliament of acting illegally in establishing the ad-hoc committee, arguing that under the Standing Orders of Parliament, the Speaker does not have the authority to unilaterally set up such a committee.
The Minority argued that the proper procedure for constituting such a committee requires a motion to be raised by a leader from either side of the House, seconded by the members, and subsequently approved by the Speaker.
Despite these claims, the Minority did not participate in any of the proceedings.
National Economic Forum
The Minority staged a no-show at the National Economic Forum despite an invitation from President John Dramani Mahama requesting for their participation.
The two-day dialogue, led by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to tackle Ghana’s economic challenges and chart a course for sustainable growth under the theme “Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together.”
The dialogue further seeks to adopt the approach of engaging all stakeholders in an inclusive discussion on economic policies and reforms.
During the SONA on February 27, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama made a passionate appeal to members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) to take part in the upcoming National Economic Forum.
MAG/AE
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