King Amoah Writes from Kumasi
In recent months, Ghana’s Parliament has faced increasing scrutiny as reports emerge of absenteeism and a lack of accountability among lawmakers.
This is also affecting the country,’s environmental services if sit unconcerned, opinion from a leading Ghanaian journalist, king amoah who has condemned the Ghana Journalists Association who have failed to react about this unholist conduct from the law makers.
What about the judiciary another corrupt organization under the watch of Akuffo’s regime.
Read on:
This disconcerting trend begs the question:
Is parliament becoming a useless sector in the governance of the nation?
Parliament, as a cornerstone of democracy, carries the weighty responsibility of representing the interests of the people, making laws, and overseeing the executive branch of government.
However, when parliamentarians neglect their duty, the very essence of representative democracy is undermined. Constituents rely on their elected officials to safeguard their interests, yet many are left feeling disenfranchised as their representatives fail to show up for sessions that are critical to the nation’s progress and governance.
The Consequences of Absenteeism
Absenteeism among parliamentarians has far-reaching consequences. When legislators miss sessions, critical discussions regarding national policies, budgets, healthcare, education, and infrastructure take a backseat.
Consequently, important decisions that impact the everyday lives of Ghanaians are delayed or inadequately reviewed.
Moreover, this pattern of neglect contributes to public disillusionment with the political process.
Citizens may begin to question the competence and commitment of their representatives, diminishing the trust that is fundamental to a functioning democracy. A parliament that is perceived as ineffective can lead to increased apathy among the electorate, reducing voter turnout and civic engagement.
The Role of Leadership.
The leadership of Parliament, including the Speaker and committee chairs, bear a significant responsibility in addressing the issue of absenteeism. Robust measures must be implemented to ensure that parliamentarians are held accountable for their attendance. This could include stricter attendance policies, publicizing attendance records, and instituting penalties for repeated absences.
Furthermore, effective leadership should foster a culture of accountability and dedication among members. Engaging parliamentarians in discussions about their roles and responsibilities and emphasizing the importance of their presence in sessions can contribute positively to a change in attitude.
Legislative Reforms Needed.
Beyond leadership accountability, legislative reforms are essential for revitalizing Ghana’s parliament.
A review of parliamentary procedures and regulations may help streamline operations and make it easier for MPs to fulfill their duties. When administrative processes are efficient, parliamentarians can focus more on their legislative and oversight responsibilities.
Encouraging more inclusive dialogues with civil society organizations and constituents can also help bridge the gap between Parliament and the public. When citizens feel that their voices are being heard, they are more likely to hold their representatives accountable and demand their attendance in Parliament.
A Call to Action.
The situation calls for immediate action from all stakeholders in Ghana’s political landscape. Citizens, civil society groups, and political analysts must advocate for a Parliament that is more accountable and responsive to the needs of the people. Holding parliamentarians to a higher standard is crucial in restoring faith in the institution and ensuring that it fulfills its democratic mandate.
As Ghana stands at a crossroads, the revitalization of Parliament is imperative to ensure effective governance.
If the trend of absenteeism continues unchecked, the institution risks becoming a mere shadow of its intended purpose, ultimately compromising the future of democracy in Ghana.
- Therefore, it is time for both parliamentarians and the citizens they serve to recognize the gravity of this situation and work collaboratively towards a more engaged and accountable Parliament..
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What is the rolejournalists and Bagbiin and Kuffo.
Thank you for reading my article.
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