Speaker to sanction MPs who mark absentee colleagues present

First deputy speaker of Parliament Joseph Osei-Owusu is demanding investigations into the phenomenon of legislators marking their absentee colleagues present in the chamber.

It comes after Majority MPs William Quaittoo and Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah questioned the basis for marking minority MPs for Cape Coast South Ricket Hagan and Asunafo South Collins Dauda present when both were absent on Wednesday.

The move generated heated debate prompting the first deputy Speaker to ask for those who marked the absent MPs present to be fished out and dealt with.

Speaker Prof. Mike Oquaye warned MPs and officials of Parliament who engage in the practice to desist or face sanctions. He demanded the deployment of clock-in devices to curb the practice.

Meanwhile, the Leadership of parliament has admonished the public to take a cue from the sudden demise of Forestry Commission CEO, Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie, alias Sir John vis a vis the covid-19 scare.

According to the Majority leader, the death of the former General Secretary of the ruling NPP must be a reminder of the existence and threat of Coronavirus.

“Mr Speaker on this occasion I think it’s important to remind all of us that this ailment is indeed real, very devastating…” Mr Kyei Mensah-Bonsu advised.

The former General Secretary of the NPP lost his life yesterday to Covid-19 at Korle Bu.

Speaking on the floor of parliament, the leadership of both sides, as well as the Speaker took turns to mourn with the family of the late Sir John.

All three leaders of the legislature paid glowing tribute to the deceased politician and made some fond memories of his political life.

Sir John died Wednesday at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital after he reportedly contracted COVID-19.

Until his demise, Sir John was the Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission.

Source: Starr FM