Former Attorney General Martin Amidu has expressed scepticism over a two-day emergency recall of Parliament proposed by the Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
Describing the move as “insulting to the electorate”, Mr Amidu said it was also unnecessary as it is so close to the December 7, elections.
In his memorandum dated November 22, 2024, the Majority Leader urged the Speaker of Parliament to convene Parliament on November 28 and 29, 2024, to handle what Mr Amidu termed “a needless tall list of non-urgent Government Business.”
The former Special Prosecutor did not mince words, stating that the proposed recall seems like an attempt to “rush through and railroad important items… down the throats of Ghanaians.”
He questioned the practicality of such a session, given that many Members of Parliament (MPs) are engaged in election campaigns that will determine their political futures.
Read also: Martin Amidu: The majority leader’s memorandum to recall Parliament is needless now
“One wonders what useful purpose would be served to break those electioneering campaigns,” Mr Amidu argued, especially when opponents not currently in Parliament would continue canvassing in their absence.
The memorandum, he observed, appears disingenuous in its appeal for unity.
Citing the Majority Leader’s call to “rise above partisan considerations,” Mr Amidu countered: “It is insulting to the electorate to be told this after the open and nauseating acrimony exhibited by the 8th Parliament.”
He lambasted the timing and intent of the recall, suggesting that it prioritizes financial convenience for MPs over national interest.
“Convening Parliament for two days only may be convenient for the finances of Members of Parliament; otherwise, I see no rational reason for wasting the public purse just a few days before the 2024 elections.”
Reflecting on broader governance issues, Mr Amidu lamented the lack of focus on pressing national emergencies such as the October 2024 Bawku crisis.
“The purposive government mismanagement of the Bawku crisis killing and maiming hundreds of citizens… is not even an agenda item for the Majority Leader,” he observed.
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