Parliament needs both sides- Kennedy Agyapong calls for cooperation amid NPP-NDC Stand-Off

Outgoing Assin Central Member of Parliament (MP), Kennedy Agyapong, has spoken out against the escalating turmoil within Ghana’s Parliament, where a fierce clash between the majority and minority parties has emerged, challenging not only the Speaker of Parliament but also the authority of the Supreme Court.

At the center of the crisis is a standoff over the parliamentary majority, which Agyapong fears may disrupt the nation’s stability if not resolved with collaboration and mutual respect.

Speaking at a media briefing, Agyapong expressed alarm over recent actions by New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs, who have boycotted sessions in response to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) asserting majority control in Parliament. Despite a Supreme Court ruling meant to address this, the NDC insists on its majority, intensifying tensions. Agyapong pleaded for a return to cooperation, underscoring the need for MPs from both sides to prioritize national welfare over party lines.

“If we can’t find a middle ground, it’s the people of Ghana who will suffer,” he warned. “NDC MPs have to ask themselves how they plan to govern, should they win the next elections. Parliament needs both sides to function, and we can’t lose sight of that.”

Referring to historical precedents, Agyapong mentioned former Speaker Aaron Mike Oquaye’s decisive actions when an MP had intentions to run as an independent, leading to a seat being declared vacant. Such actions, he noted, emphasized the need for parliamentary attendance and participation across party lines, as mandated by Ghana’s constitution.

Agyapong also cautioned against turning this parliamentary deadlock into a politically charged spectacle, reminding all involved of the potential risks. “We can’t allow politics to destabilize the country,” he stated firmly. “The stability of Ghana is more important than any party’s agenda.”

Moreover, he appealed to the media, asking them to report on the issue impartially. “The media has a role here. Taking sides will only deepen the divide. We need the press to keep things balanced, to remind us of our responsibilities, not to add fuel to the fire.”

The MP highlighted a critical concern: if the impasse lingers, essential government functions—such as the approval of salaries for public sector workers—could be delayed due to parliamentary absenteeism. “Without MPs present, how can we ensure that workers get their salaries on time? This crisis could disrupt lives if left unchecked,” he pointed out, stressing that ordinary citizens could soon bear the consequences of the deadlock.

The post Parliament needs both sides- Kennedy Agyapong calls for cooperation amid NPP-NDC Stand-Off appeared first on MyNewsGh.