Majority Caucus Blames Minority for Delays in Parliament

The Majority Caucus in Parliament has strongly responded to claims made by the Minority Caucus concerning delays in the approval of expenditure in advance of appropriation.

In a statement issued on December 20, 2024, the Majority expressed concern over what they described as inaccuracies and deliberate distortions in the Minority’s claims.

While respecting the right of the Minority to voice their opinions, the Majority Caucus highlighted what they called obstructionist tactics employed by the Minority, which have led to significant delays in critical parliamentary processes.

“The Majority Caucus in Parliament has noted with grave concern the statement issued by the Minority Caucus regarding the matter of expenditure in advance of appropriation. While we respect their right to express their views, it is imperative to address the inaccuracies and deliberate distortions within their claims and to highlight the obstructionist tactics that have characterised their conduct in Parliament,” the statement read.

The Majority Caucus stressed that the Minority has consistently delayed key issues, including the approval of expenditure for 2025, and has been actively obstructing the progress of essential legislation.

One of the more troubling examples cited by the Majority was the Minority’s “unlawful and unprecedented takeover” of the Majority benches in Parliament earlier this year, which caused weeks of disruption and stalled parliamentary business. This action, according to the Majority, violated the dignity of Parliament and hindered its ability to address important national matters.

The Majority also pointed to the Minority’s refusal to allow the approval of Supreme Court justices, Professors Richard Frimpong Oppong and Justice Sophia Rosetta Oduokuwa Semasko Essah, whose nominations had been properly vetted and approved by the Appointments Committee.

Despite their qualifications, the Minority’s refusal to permit the motion to confirm their appointments has delayed the full functioning of the Judiciary, thus impeding the delivery of justice for Ghanaians, the Majority argued.

Further criticizing the Minority’s actions, the Majority accused them of being responsible for delays in approving critical legislative measures, such as the Free SHS Bill and a $250 million World Bank facility to stabilize the financial sector.

“It is therefore, disingenuous for the Minority to shift blame to the Government for the delays in approving the expenditure in advance of appropriation. These delays are the direct consequence of their own reckless behaviour and refusal to cooperate on vital legislative matters. Critical issues such as the Free SHS Bill, the $250 million World Bank facility aimed at stabilising the financial sector, and other essential legislation have been left unresolved due to the Minority’s persistent obstructionism,” the statement highlighted.

The Majority also defended government initiatives like the One District One Factory (1D1F) program, which aims to create jobs for Ghanaian youth and address rising unemployment. They accused the Minority of undermining these efforts through lawless and reckless actions that threaten to reverse the progress made in economic recovery and job creation.

The Majority Caucus affirmed that the government has acted in good faith and has been ready to approve expenditure in advance of appropriation, but the Minority’s conduct has hindered the necessary parliamentary processes. The Majority called on the Minority to abandon their obstructive tactics and cooperate for the collective benefit of the nation.

“Despite the Minority’s efforts, we remain committed to fulfilling our constitutional duties and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of public services,” the statement concluded.