Ghana's Longest-Serving MP Calls for Unity to End Parliament Impasse

• Oct 29, 2024

Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Ghana’s longest-serving Member of Parliament and current MP for Suame, has urged Parliament to prioritize cooperation and resolve the current deadlock. Speaking to the media on October 28, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu emphasized the need for parliamentary leaders to engage in dialogue with Speaker Alban Bagbin to address the disruptions affecting parliamentary functions. He warned that the impasse, if unresolved, could have serious implications for Ghana’s upcoming general elections on December 7.

In his statement, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu highlighted the urgency of holding parliamentary elections and passing a vote on account for the next financial year, actions which have been delayed amid recent tensions. "Maybe we need to engage because elections should be held. We need a vote on account for the next succeeding financial year, which hasn’t been done. I think we need to have Parliament recalled to deal with this," he said.

The stalemate began after Speaker Bagbin declared four parliamentary seats vacant on October 17, a move that led to the indefinite adjournment of parliamentary sessions. This declaration has sparked concern among lawmakers, with Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu among those advocating for immediate steps to address the matter. He warned that if Parliament cannot resolve these issues, the stability of essential legislative and procedural frameworks could be compromised, creating obstacles for the election process.

One of the main areas of concern is the submission of a Constitutional Instrument (CI) from the Electoral Commission (EC), a document that outlines the legal framework needed to govern the December 7 elections. Without this CI, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu pointed out, the elections could face legal and logistical challenges. The Electoral Commission has already initiated preparations for the elections, including ballot paper printing and the exhibition of the provisional voter register. However, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu argues that these efforts require parliamentary endorsement to ensure they proceed without issue.

The MP underscored that the continued absence of cooperation in Parliament could negatively impact Ghana's democratic processes and prevent a smooth electoral transition. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu called on all parliamentary leaders to set aside their differences and work toward an agreement that would allow essential legislative duties to resume. He believes that addressing the deadlock now is essential not only for the upcoming elections but also for Ghana’s governance and stability in the long term.

The Suame legislator’s appeal reflects his concerns over the state of governance at a critical time. As the election date nears, the functioning of Parliament remains crucial to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that citizens can participate in a fair, well-organized election.