Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin has declined a request from the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to recall Parliament for a two-day sitting to address outstanding public business.
The proposed dates of November 28 and 29, according to the Speaker, are too close to the December 7 general elections, a period crucial for political campaigns and voter engagement.
Unrealistic timeline
In a memo dated November 26, 2024, the Speaker expressed doubts about the feasibility of addressing the twenty-two items labelled as “urgent Government Business” within the proposed two-day period.
“It is worth noting that having regard to the practice and deliberations of the House, I wonder how the proposed twenty-two items could be transacted within two days,” he stated.
He further suggested that the government prioritize these items alongside others not captured in the request for consideration after the elections.
The Speaker emphasized that Parliament’s duties extend beyond plenary sittings, acknowledging the importance of the election campaign period for all Members of Parliament.
“This season is for the Government, Parties, and both presidential and parliamentary candidates to present their manifestoes to the people, and to account and justify how the mandate given them by the voters for the four-year term of office has been applied to the benefit of the people,” he explained.
National interest and timing
Citing Article 296 (a) and (b) of the 1992 Constitution, the Speaker argued that interrupting campaign activities at this critical juncture would not be in the national interest.
The national interest, he said, would better be served if members exhibit conduct of honour, empathy, and humility in the performance of their duties.
Speaker Suggests Post-Election Sitting
The Speaker proposed that Parliament resume sitting after the general elections to complete all essential matters before transitioning to the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic.
“In the circumstances, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favour of your request. The request is accordingly declined,” he stated
The rejection of the recall request comes at a time when the government is keen to push through its agenda before the year ends.