MP Ablakwa Criticizes NPP's Absence in Parliament Amid National Crises

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, criticized MPs from the ruling NPP for failing to attend Parliament after Speaker Alban Bagbin called a session on November 7, 2024. In an interview on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana, Ablakwa described the NPP’s actions as "childish," comparing their behavior to the antics of "Tom & Jerry."

He questioned why MPs couldn’t maturely resolve urgent issues, highlighting the disappointment this behavior brings to civil society. Ablakwa, the ranking member on foreign affairs, expressed concern about the nation’s pressing challenges, such as illegal mining, a cholera outbreak, and unemployment.

“The Afrobarometer report shows that 41% of Ghanaians are concerned about unemployment. All these ‘Tom and Jerry’ games, how does it solve the unemployment crisis? Do you know Cholera is back in our system with a bang? We are in a health crisis. People are dying. Galamsey, Li 2462. We have pressing issues, urgent issues,” he stated.

Speaker Bagbin eventually adjourned Parliament indefinitely due to the lack of agenda items, stemming from the Business Committee's failure to meet and prepare the necessary schedule.

The recall session, initiated by the Majority caucus, was intended to address critical national issues. However, Speaker Bagbin expressed disappointment over the absence of the NPP caucus, noting that their nonappearance had brought proceedings to a halt.