Minority Boycotts Parliament For The Fourth Time In Support Of Assin North MP

The Minority in Parliament has again boycotted Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting in support of the Assin North MP James Gyakye Quayson.

Mr Quayson is before the Accra High Court on five charges — deceit of a public officer, forgery of a passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statement, perjury, and false declaration for office.

Their absence marks the fourth consecutive time the caucus has taken this action.

The decision to boycott parliamentary business was announced by the caucus when the Assin North MP was sworn in on July 4.

Despite cautions from the Speaker, Alban Bagbin, highlighting that the action goes against the standing orders of the House, the caucus followed through with their threats.

Their decision has led to concerns among members of the public and some legislators who express dissatisfaction with the continuous boycott in support of their colleague who is currently facing criminal prosecution.

The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, for instance, has described as unfortunate the Minority’s decision to absent themselves from sittings.

Also, the People’s National Convention (PNC) expressed concerns about the decision to boycott proceedings in solidarity with caucus members.

The party urged Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to take action by surcharging all absentee Minority members on the days they are absent from the House.