Asking relevant questions in Parliament
The statement by a senior Governance Advisor at the African Parliamentary Network (APNAC), Prof. David Abdulai, deserves attention and comment.
According to Prof. Abdulai, “The New Patriotic Party (NPP), which Afenyo Markin leads in Parliament, should be concerned about his behaviour and ensure that he asks only relevant questions to assess the competence and suitability of ministerial nominees.”
Having followed the parliamentary vetting process, I have wondered whether proceedings in the house are based on the knowledge of individuals elected to serve the country, or a dramatic performance.
We are currently in the ninth Parliament, which should ideally reflect a mature and progressive body. After nine years, one would expect Parliamentians to pose to vey relevant questions.
However, the question of some members of Parliament (MPs), who are lawyers, possessing an understanding of governance, law, order and discipline, more than most in society, with their profession too commanding respect, leaves much to be desired.
Ghana has birthed esteemed lawyers, including, J.H. Mensah, R.R. Amponsah, Tsatsu Tsikata, Fui Tsikata, William Ofori Boafo, Samuel Awuku Okudzato, Ruth Annie Jiagge, John Mensah Sarbah, Osei Kyei Mensah-Bonsu, Marriet Brew Appiah and Sophia Akuffo, to name just a few of the over 3,200 lawyers in the country.
These reputable individuals did not give us much cause for worry, however, the conduct of some of our lawyer-parliamentarians currently leaves much to be desired.
The vetting process is designed to carefully and thoroughly examine individuals to ensure their suitability for high positions demanding secrecy, loyalty, trustworthiness and competence.
The Appointment Committee of Parliament, made up of members of integrity, is responsible for reviewing presidential nominations for significant roles.
Given the crucial responsibility of the vetting committee, one would expect its members to carry out their duties in a manner that commands respect.
Members of the vetting committee should ask nominees relevant questions that highlight their strengths or expose their weaknesses.
Unfortunately, we have witnessed the opposite, with some members asking nominees to sing or dance during the vetting!
Lawyers are expected to behave in exemplary ways for others to follow.
It was disheartening to observe some members of the same vetting committee, violently overturning tables and chairs intended for committee use during the vetting process.
In light of this, I urge all professionals in Ghana to consider filing nomination documents to contest available political positions when the opportunity arises.
Parliament belongs to all of us and is not limited to lawyers alone.
Nana Darko Ampem Ohyeadwira.
E-mail: nanadarkoampem@yahoo.com
