The National Peace Council has convened an emergency meeting ahead of what is expected to be a tense parliamentary session on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
The meeting aims to prevent disruptions following the Supreme Court’s decision to halt Speaker Alban Bagbin’s ruling, which had declared four parliamentary seats vacant.
Tensions have been mounting, with the Minority in Parliament signalling their intention to occupy the Majority side of the chamber until the Speaker issues a new ruling.
This standoff arises amidst political uncertainty concerning the balance of power in the legislature.
The primary goal of the meeting is to ensure that Tuesday’s session proceeds peacefully, avoiding any potential chaos.
Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, a member of the National Peace Council and spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, stressed the importance of caution and urged all parties to act responsibly to prevent escalating tensions.
“We don’t want to see anything untoward happen tomorrow. There have even been suggestions that military personnel might be deployed, though there is no solid basis for that. Still, we must prepare for any outcome,” he stated.
Sheikh Shaibu advised that the various arms of government set aside political sentiments and view the current situation as an opportunity to strengthen Ghana’s democracy.
“This moment is not about one party or the other. It is about reaching a point in our democratic journey where crucial decisions must be made for the betterment of our future,” he added.
WE WILL SIMPLY WALK OUT – Afenyo Markin
The leader of the NPP caucus in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin has served notice, his side of the House are not ready and will not be involved in any action that has the potential of stoking violence in Parliament when the House reconvenes on Tuesday, October 22.
He says worst case if tensions escalate, members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), are prepared to simply walk out rather than engage in any confrontation.
His comment follows public concerns about the ensuing constitutional crisis and the security implications especially after the NDC MPs issued a strong caution to the Ghana Armed Forces not to dare in deploying soldiers to Parliament as was witnessed in the aftermath of the 2020 elections.
The NDC has signalled their intention to occupy the Majority side of the chamber and take immediate action on several legislative matters, including amendments to the Communication Tax (e-levy) and appointing a new Second Deputy Speaker.
Source :myxxyzonline
