Members of Parliament representing the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have affirmed their commitment to vigilantly safeguard their recently acquired position as the Majority side in Parliament starting Tuesday, October 22.
Their stance follows the Supreme Court’s decision to grant a Stay of Execution against the Speaker’s ruling that declared vacant four seats.
Three MPs had sought to run independently in the upcoming election, while one independent member had aligned with the NPP.
The MP for Effutu and Majority Leader, Afenyo-Markin, turned to the apex court after Speaker Bagbin’s pronouncement shifted their status to the minority last Thursday.
Addressing the media in Accra on Sunday, the MP for Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam constituency and Minority Leader, Dr. Ato Forson, asserted that the NDC would not permit anyone to diminish their legitimate role.
“We will fiercely protect our new Majority status and will not yield, retreat, or surrender what we lawfully earned.
Our commitment to the people remains unwavering!” he declared. Joined by his colleagues, Dr. Forson emphasized that the NDC now forms the Majority caucus in Parliament, as outlined in the Standing Orders of the legislative body.
He declared that the caucus would “zealously defend” this position and firmly oppose any efforts aimed at undermining it.
Dr. Forson assured Ghanaians that they would leverage their increased numbers to eliminate what he described as “burdensome taxes,” as promised by NDC flagbearer John Mahama in preparation for the December election.
The contentious e-Levy, introduced by the NPP government, has elicited widespread public dissatisfaction, with concerns raised over its adverse effects on financial transactions and economic activity.
Additionally, the introduction of a tax on betting and gaming has sparked controversy, particularly among the youth. Dr. Forson criticized the NPP government for implementing what he termed a “high tax regime,” which he argued has stifled businesses and pushed many Ghanaians to financial hardship.
Meanwhile, the MP for the Adaklu constituency and Minority Chief Whip, Governs Kwame Agbodza, disclosed alleged government plans to disrupt parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday.
Agbodza cautioned of purported meetings between the government and some elements within the Ghana Armed Forces to intervene in Parliament akin to previous chaos that erupted in the 8th Parliament’s opening session.
He warned that any soldier who invades the legislature would be identified and held accountable for their actions in due course.
While the NDC MPs asserted they had no intention to incite conflict, they maintained readiness to resist any challenges to their newfound position as the minority side.