In Ghana’s constitutional framework, the interplay between the executive and the legislature significantly shapes governance and party dynamics.
The Executive Director of the African Center for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), Dr. Rasheed Draman has offered a nuanced perspective on how this relationship impacts the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 9th Parliament.
His analysis delved into the strategic selection of parliamentary leaders for executive roles and its implications for both majority and minority parties. He affirmed;
“That is a pattern that we see in a constitutional dispensation where there’s a marriage between the executive and the legislature. Usually, those who have been at the forefront of the party’s agenda in parliament end up being the ones who are taken because of the experience they have gained, and also perhaps their knowledge in the various fields. They are the ones being taken to be part of the executive.”
Dr. Rasheed Draman Executive Director, ACEPA
He pointed out that such transitions often leave a void in the party’s parliamentary front bench, but they are driven by the practical need for experienced individuals in the executive branch.
He emphasized that the movement of seasoned parliamentarians to the executive has significant implications for parliamentary effectiveness, particularly in the NDC. He added;
“I think it’s perhaps going to be something good because, some of us have been worried about the huge numbers, the super majority that we see with the NDC.”
Dr. Rasheed Draman Executive Director, ACEPA
Dr. Draman observed that the NDC’s substantial majority, juxtaposed with the diminished experience in the minority bench, could reshape the parliamentary landscape.
However, this scenario presents an opportunity for a rejuvenated minority to step up and provide a robust opposition. He emphasized;
“Now it’s almost going to be, perhaps, a new set of leadership versus a new set of leadership. I think that might work well for our democracy. So that they can match each other boot for boot and that way we can have an active minority – vibrant minority, which is an essential ingredient for multiparty democracy.”
Dr. Rasheed Draman Executive Director, ACEPA
Meanwhile, others raised some concerns that with the inception of the 9th parliament, there hasn’t been any official announcement of the retention of the leadership of the 8th parliament. As a result, the NDC probably knew or expected that some of these persons would be appointed as ministers.
Dr. Draman pointed out that this calculated delay might reflect the party’s adaptive strategy in navigating the executive-legislative interplay.
Appointment of a New Majority Leader, Parliamentary Dynamics
Focusing on the appointment of Hon. Mahama Ayariga as the new majority leader, Dr. Draman commended the choice.
“Watching him and having worked with him, I think he is one of the very cool heads that we have within the NDC, and then [he’s] very well educated as well.”
“You don’t want someone who will not allow any space for the minority because of the huge numbers that they have. So, somebody like him, I think given his demeanor, given his capacity, I believe is one who would be a very good leader for this time.”
Dr. Rasheed Draman Executive Director, ACEPA
Moreover, Dr. Draman underscores the importance of having a majority leader who can balance executive influence with parliamentary integrity. He added;
“Given the kind of track record he has established for himself and the international repute that he has, including having served in the ECOWAS parliament for many years, I think he’ll be very careful to make sure that reputation is properly guarded.”
Dr. Rasheed Draman Executive Director, ACEPA
His analysis sheds light on the strategic movements within the NDC and the potential for a more balanced and effective parliamentary process.
The appointment of Hon. Ayariga as majority leader is seen as a positive development, promising a fairer legislative environment and a stronger opposition.
Dr. Draman’s perspective emphasized the critical role of leadership in maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s democracy amidst shifting political landscapes.
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