The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Parliamentary Caucus has filed a petition against a previous request made by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Caucus for a recall of Parliament from November 28th to 29th. In a memo addressed to the Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the NDC Caucus Leader, highlighted that the NPP’s request does not meet the constitutional requirement of having signatures from fifteen percent of Parliament members, as mandated by Article 112 (3) of the Constitution and Order 53(1) of the Standing Orders. The NDC argues that the petitioners have failed to prove any emergency situation or urgent governmental business that justifies this recall, especially given the proximity of the crucial 2024 General Election on December 7.
The NDC memo pointed out that with the election looming, members of Parliament are currently focused on crucial engagements in their constituencies, making the timing of the proposed recall particularly disruptive. The memo emphasized that this election is not only significant for Ghana’s future but also for many Parliamentarians’ careers, leaving insufficient time for them to campaign and establish logistical support for election day should the recall take place as suggested. Furthermore, the NDC noted that the proposed two-day sitting would significantly shorten the time for campaigning and other vital preparations necessary for the elections, putting additional pressure on the MPs.
The NDC Caucus also raised concerns regarding the previous requests for urgent recalls made by the NPP earlier in 2024, which have not led to any substantive parliamentary business, as indicated by the abandonment of many promised discussions. The memo recounted a recent recall request on November 7, where the NPP failed to mobilize a sufficient number of members, ultimately resulting in the Parliament being adjourned indefinitely. These instances have led the NDC to assert that the current situation in Parliament does not warrant an urgent recall, especially given that Parliament will continue to function until January 6, 2025.
Moreover, the NDC stressed that Parliament could reconvene after the elections to handle any outstanding government business. The memo contended that the approaching elections should take priority, allowing candidates and the electorate to focus on meaningful engagement in order to make informed decisions. According to the NDC, the proposed recall, besides being poorly timed, would place unnecessary financial strains on the Ghanaian taxpayer without just cause.
The memo concluded by admonishing against any actions that might destabilize the country’s peace and democracy as the elections approach. The NDC emphasized the importance of conducting credible and fair elections and asserted that the focus should remain on maintaining order during this critical time. To resolve any remaining issues, the NDC suggested a leadership meeting after the elections, allowing for a collaborative approach to any necessary recall of Parliament.
In summary, the NDC Parliamentary Caucus has expressed strong opposition to the NPP’s call for a parliamentary recall, outlining legal, logistical, and ethical reasons for their position. They advocate for prioritizing the electoral process over parliamentary business and recommend that discussions regarding any outstanding government matters be postponed until after the elections, emphasizing a commitment to preserving the integrity and stability of Ghana’s democracy during this vital period.
