The leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Caucus,
says that it is not a problem for the NDC MPs to maintain the previous seating arrangement in Parliament in this current one.
“Let me assure the Ghanaian people that the NDC 137 MPs have no difficulty sitting to the left of the Speaker,” he said.
Speaking at a press conference, Thursday, in Parliament, the Tamale South MP said the decision taken by the NDC Caucus would only stand “so long as our numerical strength is respected” and the caucus plays a role “in the composition of committees and in the determination of leadership of committees.”
The NDC Caucus is resolute that despite Fomena MP, Andrews Asiamah Amoako’s decision to side with the NPP Caucus in Parliament, the 8th Parliament still stands without a Majority.
According to Haruna Iddrisu, the current dispensation of a no majority in Parliament should ensure a fair representation of both parties on the Parliamentary committees as envisaged in the 1992 Constitution under article 103 (5) and Order 154 of the Standing Orders of the House.
“Given the current numbers, there must be strict sharing of the leadership of the Select Committees by the two sides of the House. Out of the 16 Select Committees, the NDC should chair eight (8) while the NPP would also chair eight (8).
“This would be a true reflection of the different shades of opinion in the current Parliament.”
Meanwhile, the NPP Caucus has indicated that it will by all legitimate means maintain their position on the right-hand side of the Speaker.
Chief Whip for the NPP caucus Annor Dompreh said: “On Friday, we will sit at where we have to sit. Whatever we will to do to sit at where we have to sit, we will sit there and they must understand this.”
During the inauguration of the 8th Parliament on January 6, the NDC MPs upon earlier arrival took the seats to the right of the Speaker.
An action that led to a brouhaha and several altercations between the two sides of Parliament.
Source: Myjoyonline