First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu has expressed disappointment in the conduct of Members of the Eighth Parliament, highlighting that the House has become mired in controversies instead of concentrating on its primary responsibility of lawmaking.
In an exclusive interview with Citi News, Mr Osei-Owusu pointed out that the current Parliament has failed to pass several key pieces of legislation that are critical for national development.
He noted that compared to previous sessions, there has been a noticeable decline in legislative productivity, which he attributes to ongoing political infighting and disputes among members.
Mr. Osei-Owusu called for a renewed commitment from all Members of Parliament (MPs) to prioritize legislative business and work collaboratively to overcome the current challenges facing the House.
He emphasised the importance of unity and constructive dialogue in restoring the integrity and effectiveness of Parliament.
Additionally, he expressed concern that the ongoing disputes could undermine public trust in the legislative process, which is essential for a functioning democracy.
“I’m disappointed in the eighth parliament, generally. I said it the other time that we have done very little in legislation. You can just take the number of laws and smaller legislations we have done. We’ve wasted so much time on inconsequential things, inconsequential matters.
“Our main job is making laws but go and take the number of laws we have made in the past four years and compare to other parliaments and you’ll see that the eighth parliament has been the least.
“It’s been full of controversy. Matters that previously we used to sit down and discuss and overcome now we turn them into fisticuffs. That is most disappointing to me. The main essence of democracy is to encourage people to exchange ideas so if Parliament which is the entire reflection of the country we cannot sit down on any matter to discuss and agree or agree to disagree, where is that democracy, you know so I find our conduct as a parliament very disappointing.”
He urged MPs to reflect on their roles and responsibilities and to recommit themselves to serving the interests of the Ghanaian people.
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