Sylvester Tetteh, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ngleshie Amanfrom has said that although the suspension of Parliament is for a good cause, it is unfortunate, especially to new MP’s like him.
Speaking during a discussion, he stated that the House has been exciting as a result of new entrants like him but unfortunately what they were looking forward to has been short-lived due to the suspension. He also revealed that he was worried about work effectiveness now that they are away from the House.
Touching on the current state of the virus in the country, he stated that, at this stage people will not act too ignorant about the virus looking at the statistics.
Commenting on the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin’s announcement of some Parliamentarians testing positive for the virus, he said he sees nothing wrong with the act by the leader and noted that, he would have announced to his constituents if he had tested positive, to put them on a level of becoming more conscious of the virus.
Mr. Tetteh alsorecimmended that, the standing orders may have to make way for technology to enable effective work although they are away from the chamber.
“We are looking at how to work in the comfort of our offices. We have internet connection. I believe that they may have to vary the standing orders in order to allow for technology to be used in our proceedings.”
He further posited that, citizens owe it to themselves to ensure they adhere to protocols in order not to get infected.
Also speaking on the vetting process which is currently ongoing, he stated that, this year’s vetting will be quiet solemn due to COVID-19 since lots of people will not be allowed in the premises. He then lauded the fact that it is being aired on various media stations.
Also, Citizen Ato Dadzie, General Secretary of the Great Consolidated Party, speaking on the conduct of Parliament after the announcement of some MPs testing positive stated that, they had not done too well but averred that, with regards to response to the virus, they have done well with the quick response especially with suspension of Parliament.
“I think they have done well in that regard. At least it makes us feel like they are doing something.”
He said that once people see that things are being done differently it will bring about the sense of urgency with regards to the intensity of the virus.
“Even now with Parliament, we can see that proceeding is changing. Now they have even suspended for three weeks. People will be alarmed that, what is happening? So, that will tell you that something is happening.”
He further stated that he was expecting a more digital form of interaction in order for work in Parliament to continue now that they are on a break from main premises.
A private legal practitioner, Nana Adjoa Adobea Asante adding her voice to the conversation also iterated the fact that, although the closure of Parliament is quite unfortunate, it has become a necessary evil to help mitigate the spread of the virus.
