Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has publicly criticized his colleagues from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for their absence during a parliamentary sitting recalled by Speaker Alban Bagbin on November 7, 2024. During an interview on Metro TV’s *Good Morning Ghana*, Ablakwa likened the behavior of NPP MPs to the antics of cartoon characters Tom and Jerry, calling their actions “childish” and unbecoming of elected officials.
Okudzeto Ablakwa expressed frustration over the NPP’s refusal to engage in critical discussions at a time when Ghana faces pressing issues, including rampant illegal mining (galamsey), a cholera outbreak, and rising unemployment. He highlighted that a recent Afrobarometer report indicated that 41% of Ghanaians are worried about joblessness, questioning how the NPP’s antics could contribute to resolving such significant challenges. “Cholera is back in our system with a bang. We are in a health crisis. People are dying,” he lamented, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these matters.
The parliamentary session was expected to tackle several urgent issues; however, due to the absence of the majority caucus, Speaker Bagbin was forced to adjourn proceedings indefinitely. He expressed disappointment at the lack of participation from NPP lawmakers, which he noted hindered legislative progress.
Hon. Ablakwa’s comments reflect a growing concern among civil society regarding the government’s ability to address critical national issues effectively. As Ghana continues to grapple with these challenges, calls for accountability and constructive dialogue in Parliament have intensified.
newslinkghana.com