A fiery exchange erupted in Parliament over the Free SHS policy, sparked by Majority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin’s request for clarification from Ranking Member for Education Peter Kwasi Nortsu-Kotoe.
Afenyo-Markin referenced media reports suggesting Nortsu-Kotoe opposed the introduction of a Free SHS bill, which has not been presented to Parliament.
Afenyo-Markin sought to clarify Nortsu-Kotoe’s stance, but Minority Chief Whip Kwame Governs Agbodza intervened, accusing Afenyo-Markin of relying on media reports not before the House.
Agbodza insisted that the proper procedure was to file a question directly to Nortsu-Kotoe.
The Majority Leader maintained that he was seeking clarification on a matter of national concern, while the Minority Chief Whip reiterated that no Free SHS bill was currently before Parliament.
The Speaker intervened, noting that leadership had agreed to limit debate time, but another MP insisted on discussing the matter.
Tensions escalated as Minority MPs rose to their feet, with Murtala Mohammed criticizing the Majority’s lack of attendance. “The challenges we face are due to the unseriousness of the team you lead,” Mohammed said. “Only seven Majority MPs are present, while your members are following your presidential candidate, dancing Azonto.”
The MP for Ho West raised concerns about quorum, leading the Speaker to order the bell rung, warning of adjournment if quorum was not met.
The debate continued, addressing issues related to the Attorney General and the ongoing ambulance case.
Dominic Ayine supported the Speaker’s move, citing procedural rules to address the quorum issue.
The controversy highlighted the ongoing tensions in Parliament, with the Free SHS policy remaining a contentious issue.
The debate ultimately centered on issues related to the Attorney General and the ambulance case, with the quorum issue temporarily resolved.
