Several Ministers of State have come under fire from the Minority in Parliament for failing to appear before the House on Thursday, July 18 to address important questions.
The Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, the Minister for Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, and the Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor, were expected to clarify issues regarding alleged illegal recruitment into the security services and the takeover of state lands by private entities but were noticeably absent.
The Majority leadership defended their absence by stating that the ministers were attending a cabinet retreat. However, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, who had raised several of the questions, deemed this excuse as unacceptable.
Mohammed emphasized the need to separate the legislative and executive functions, pointing out the dual responsibilities of some ministers who also serve as Members of Parliament. He criticized the lack of seriousness shown by the absent ministers and urged them to prioritize their parliamentary duties.
Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Amoako Asiamah, presiding over the session, expressed concern over the absence of the ministers, labeling it as “problematic.” He directed the Majority Leadership to ensure that ministers are always present to address questions in Parliament, urging them to fulfill this important duty.
This incident highlights the importance of accountability and responsibility in governance, as Members of Parliament strive to uphold their duties to the public. It serves as a reminder of the significance of transparency and engagement between government officials and the legislative body.
