The Speaker of Parliament has urged Members of Parliament to be punctual as they prepare for the upcoming general elections.
Mr. Edward Doe Ajaho’s comments were contained in his opening remarks of the 2nd Meeting of the 4th Session of the 6th Parliament of the 4th Republic.
The country is preparing for general elections in November this year. This year’s polls are considered very crucial due to some issues that erupted after the last election which resulted in a court case.
The opposition New Patriotic Party risks staying in opposition for twelve years if it loses. While the incumbent, National Democratic Congress is also eager to hold on to power for the next four years.
It is expected that some Members of Parliament will be involved in party campaigns ahead of the elections.
But the Speaker urges them to respect the timetable of the House to enable them complete the business of the House on time.
“I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the gender for this current meeting is a tall one, having regard to the paucity of time at our disposal, I will entreat honourable members to attend business of the house with punctuality and seriousness both at plenary band in committees in order to facilitate the expeditious consideration of programme business,” he stated.
The Speaker also indicated that priority should be given to the consideration of the Right to Information Bill which is currently at the consideration stage.
The Minority Leader, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu pleaded with the Speaker to ensure that Ministers who are summoned to appear before the house get copies of questions on time before they appear. This according to him will speed up some processes in the house.
Mr. Doe Ajaho stated that the leadership of Parliament is concerned about the spate of attacks on some Members of Parliament.
The MP for Abuakwa North Constituency, J. B Danquah-Adu was stabbed to death in his home three months ago by some assailants.
Recently, the MP for Okere Constituency was robbed at gunpoint by armed men. The trial of two persons involved in the murder of the late MP is ongoing while an investigation is being conducted into the robbery incident.
Mr Ajaho assured the MPs that necessary contacts have been made with the security agencies to ensure members and staff of the House are protected. He urged the MPs to take necessary security precautions while their security concerns are being addressed.
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