The Minority in Ghana's Parliament has announced the formation of a "crack team" of seven members to debate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

This decision follows Dr. Bawumia's call for a public debate on the economy between himself and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama.

According to the minority, this debate aligns with parliamentary rules that permit the Vice President to participate in debates within Parliament.

They believe this platform will provide Dr. Bawumia the chance to present his views on the Mid-Year Budget Review and other economic issues.

What the law says

Chapter 10 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, specifically Article 111, outlines the attendance and participation rights of the Vice President, Ministers, and Deputy Ministers in Parliament:

"The Vice-President, or a Minister or Deputy Minister who is not a member of Parliament, shall be entitled to participate in the proceedings of Parliament and shall be accorded all the privileges of a member of Parliament except that he is not entitled to vote or to hold an office in Parliament."

This provision allows the Vice President to engage in discussions and debates within Parliament, enjoying the same privileges as Members of Parliament, with the exceptions of voting rights and holding a parliamentary office.

While Bawumia has not officially responded to this invitation, his allies have dismissed the idea, citing various concerns.



AM/EK

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