NDC Opposes Parliament Recall, Cites Insufficient Grounds And Poor Timing

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Caucus in Parliament has strongly opposed a petition by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus to recall Parliament for urgent government business. Led by majority leader, Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the NDC Caucus argued that the petition lacks sufficient grounds and is poorly timed, considering the general elections are just 11 days away.

In a memo addressed to the Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Forson emphasized that the petition does not meet the constitutional or procedural requirements for recalling Parliament. Specifically, he pointed out the absence of signatures from at least 15% of Members of Parliament, as stipulated under Article 112(3) of the Constitution and Standing Order 53(1).

Dr. Forson dismissed claims of urgency, stating that the proposed business can wait until after the December 7 elections. “With members deeply engaged in their constituencies ahead of the polls, this recall would disrupt critical electoral preparations, including campaign activities, training of polling agents, and logistical arrangements,” he said.

The NDC Leader in Parliament criticized the recall proposal as poorly timed, citing previous emergency sittings initiated by the NPP caucus that failed to deliver on their stated objectives.

He highlighted a recent recall on November 7, where the NPP side failed to mobilize enough MPs to transact business, leading to an indefinite adjournment.

“Recalling Parliament at this time would disadvantage members and impose an unnecessary burden on taxpayers,” Dr. Forson noted. Instead, he called for a leadership meeting after the elections to address outstanding matters.

Dr. Forson emphasized the need for all stakeholders to focus on ensuring peaceful, credible, and fair elections, warning that a recall could exacerbate tensions and disrupt Ghana’s democratic process.

Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy