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NDC Parliamentarians End Boycott Tomorrow

Mon, 21 May 2001 Source: GNA

Mr Kenneth Dzirasah, Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament said the National Democratic Congress (NDC) members would join their colleagues and participate in the business of the house from Tuesday, May 22.

He noted that the boycott by the Minority following the arrest and detention of Mr Enoch T Mensah, MP Ningo Prampram by Bureau of National Investigation (BNI) has been "tremendously successful".

Mr Dzirasah told Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview at Akosombo, that the Minority by virtue of its strength, experience and knowledge in parliamentary procedures is "indispensable".

He noted that the boycott was to send a strong signal to the Executive and other institutions the need to adhere to constitutional provisions and to assure all that the Minority is active to play its watch dog role.

He said for the first time, the BNI bas to issue a statement to explain reason for the arrest, is enough evidence of the tremendous pressure the boycott exerted on the executive.

The Second Deputy Speaker noted that the boycott was the first of a series of actions to be taken by the Minority to protect the rights of ordinary citizen and to ensure that the Government and its institutions operate within the constitutional framework.

Mr Dzirasah said the Minority expect the Government to create an enabling environment for vibrant democracy, through the strengthening of institutions and not through intimidation.

He assured the nation that the Minority would always seek their interest and collaborate with state machinery to move the country forward.

"The Minority would table for discussion in the House the arrest and detention of the member", he said.

Mr Dzirasa said it is expected that the business of the house would be re-arranged and the Minister of Education would be called upon to answer questions from members.

He said during the boycott, proceedings in the House was grounded and could not take any major decision, "this shows the potency of the Minority", he added

Source: GNA