Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called for calm in response to his decision to indefinitely adjourn parliamentary proceedings, assuring the public that the move was made in accordance with parliamentary authority.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, November 6, Bagbin explained the reasoning behind the adjournment, which has sparked tensions between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), both of whom are in disagreement over which party holds the Majority in Parliament.
The adjournment, which initially took place on October 22, was prompted by unresolved issues surrounding the House’s composition and operational dynamics.
The ongoing political standoff was further escalated by a walkout staged by NPP members, leading to a lack of quorum for parliamentary decisions.
Bagbin clarified that the adjournment was a temporary measure, not a suspension of parliamentary work. It is intended to provide both parties the opportunity to address the impasse and restore order in Parliament.
Emphasizing the need for unity, Bagbin stressed that the break allows for constructive dialogue between the parties.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the integrity and stability of Parliament and urged all political stakeholders to work together towards a resolution.
“I cherished the role parliament plays in our democracy and my mission is to leave parliament a stronger institution than I met it. Parliament is alive and working. It has not been dissolved, prohibited, suspended or terminated. The plenary meeting of parliament was adjourned indefinitely due to the lack of quorum to make decisions created by a walkout staged by the NPP members, who were available as a result of a disagreement.
“The cause of the disagreement which led to a disorder had to be resolved with time and the engagement of many more leaders than those in parliament. The adjournment was done by the lawful authority, the speaker of parliament. Let us stop pressing the panic buttons and fear-mongering and allow the system to work,” he stated.
