Mahama Ayariga, the MP for Bawku Central, has confirmed that Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are ready to return to their legislative duties should Speaker Alban Bagbin call for a recall. This assurance follows the indefinite adjournment of Parliament on October 22, triggered by a contentious debate between the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding majority control in the House.
In an interview with Citi FM, Ayariga emphasized the NDC’s commitment to swiftly respond to the Speaker’s summons, asserting that the party remains dedicated to fulfilling their legislative responsibilities amid ongoing political disputes. He underscored that their willingness to return is indicative of their commitment to the governance process in Ghana.
The adjournment arose from significant disagreements, with Ayariga highlighting the NPP’s underrepresentation during the session, where fewer than 30 of their members were present. He criticized the NPP for not taking parliamentary proceedings seriously, suggesting that their lack of engagement contributed to the tensions.
Ayariga further alleged that the disruptions during the session were part of a strategy led by former Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to maintain control over parliamentary activities. Despite the current impasse, he reaffirmed that NDC MPs are ready to return to Parliament as soon as the Speaker calls for them, emphasizing their determination to support effective governance and legislative processes for the benefit of the country. “We will respect the Speaker’s directives whenever he says we are the Minority,” he stated.
