Speaker refuses to postpone sitting of less than five MPs

There were less than five Members in Parliament on Tuesday when proceedings for the day began.

Though work began smoothly with the adoption of the official report of Tuesday, October 17, Member of Parliament for Bongo Constituency Edward Bawa protested the number of legislators present.

According to Mr Bawa, running of proceedings was going to be an infraction on Standing Order 48 of the House.

He, therefore, wanted the House to adjourn as there was no quorum formed. But the Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, did not take the suggestion likely. “Our people who pay us expect that work should be done,” he said. “So let us at least take the opportunity and see how we can contain the situation, ameliorate the problem rather than taking advantage of it and going home.” He bemoaned the lowering of standards by members as regards punctuality.

Deliberations continued, MG‘s Parliamentary Correspondent Mercydalyn Lokko reported.