With just eleven days to the December 7 general election, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament have called on Speaker Alban Bagbin to reject a petition from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs to recall Parliament. The NPP had sought the recall to address what they described as “high priority” government business.
In a memo dated November 25, 2024, and signed by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, leader of the NDC MPs, the caucus argued that the NPP’s request failed to meet constitutional and procedural requirements. Citing Article 112(3) of the Constitution and Standing Order 53(1) of Parliament, Dr. Forson stated that the petition lacked the necessary justification for such an urgent recall.
The NDC MPs questioned the necessity of the recall, pointing out that no emergency or pressing government business had been demonstrated. They further noted that similar recalls initiated by the NPP in the past had yielded little progress, making another recall at this critical time unnecessary.
The memo urged Speaker Bagbin to use his discretion to reject the petition, emphasizing that it was inconsistent with parliamentary procedures and lacked compelling reasons for reconvening the House.
As of now, Speaker Bagbin has not responded to the NDC MPs’ request. Meanwhile, the political atmosphere remains charged, with both parties gearing up for the crucial 2024 general election.