Opanin Agyekum (R) and Alban Bagbin (L)
Professor Kofi Agyekum, the Head of the Linguistics Department at the University of Ghana, has called on Speaker Alban Bagbin to help redeem the image of the 8th Parliament.
Speaking on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo on November 14, 2024, Opanin Agyekum, as he is popularly known, raised concerns about the negative events that have plagued the 8th Parliament since its inception, tarnishing its image.
According to him, although it will be difficult to undo the damage that has already been done, Bagbin can still redeem the image of Parliament in the few months left before their tenure ends by resolving the impasse between the NDC and NPP caucuses.
He asserted that doing that can change the public perception and opinion that has been made about them.
“I will appeal to the leader, the Speaker of Parliament, to take action to redeem the image and change the negative perception they have. They should do something for a positive change before their term ends,” he said.
Opanin Agyekum further advised the lawmakers to eschew their pride and personal differences and find common ground to reconvene in Parliament and make decisions in the country’s best interest.
“With the little time left for them to sit and make decisions, the MPs should put aside their differences and not refuse to attend Parliament when called. If they do that, they will be causing harm to their constituents,” he advised.
Opanin Agyekum’s comments come in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling overturning Bagbin’s declaration of four seats vacant. The court voted 5-2 to overturn the Speaker’s decision following a suit filed by Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, the Member of Parliament for Effutu.
MAG/OGB