Deputy Minority Whip, Habib Iddrisu
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has expressed concern over what it describes as the persistent absence of Majority Members of Parliament (MPs), warning that the situation is hindering the smooth conduct of government business.
At the opening of public business on the floor of the House yesterday, Minority MPs voiced frustration that despite holding 189 of the 276 parliamentary seats, the Majority continues to record poor attendance, disrupting quorums and delaying key legislative work.
First Deputy Minority Whip, Habib Iddrisu, raised the alarm after it became evident that the House could not immediately meet the constitutional quorum required to begin proceedings.
“One-third of the 276 members — that is, 92 — is the minimum number required to form a quorum for parliamentary business, yet only 70 members were present at the start,” he lamented.
He urged the Majority leadership to take attendance seriously, stressing that such absenteeism undermines public confidence in Parliament’s ability to deliver on its legislative and oversight duties.
Inexcusable
Adding his voice, Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damango, said the situation was “inexcusable,” given that the governing side commands what he termed a “very special two-thirds supermajority.”
“With such overwhelming numbers, the Majority should be able to push through government business without difficulty,” he said. “Yet, time and again, they fail to show up when critical items are scheduled.”
Mr. Jinapor cited the Parliamentary Order Paper for October 30, which included important matters such as the laying and discussion of a Scholarship Scheme paper, questioning whether the Majority could muster enough members to see it through.
Defence
In response, Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, defended his side, insisting that Parliament’s rules are being followed.
He cited Article 102 of the 1992 Constitution and Order 64 of the Standing Orders, which empower the Speaker to verify the presence of a quorum, ring the bell for 10 minutes, and conduct a headcount before suspending or adjourning proceedings.
Mr. Dafeamekpor attributed the thin attendance to committee meetings running into plenary time, suggesting a review of the House’s daily schedule. “Committees should meet from 9 a.m. to midday so that by 2 p.m., all members can attend the plenary session,” he proposed.
