The Minority in Parliament has boycotted the ongoing three-day orientation programme for the 9th Parliament at the Volta Serene Hotel, citing concerns over the high costs of the event.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin revealed that the Minority informed him of their decision late on the evening of Friday, February 28.
In his address during the opening session, Speaker Bagbin described the Minority’s decision as “unacceptable” and “unfortunate,” stressing the significance of the orientation programme for lawmakers.
“Our colleagues in the New Patriotic Party have opted out, giving the reason that the cost component is too much, and they don’t want to be part of that,” Speaker Bagbin said.
He further explained that the venue for such events is selected after a thorough process involving a search for suitable locations, considering factors like cost, facilities, and convenience. “There is a good reason why we choose venues for this; it’s not partisan. We assess the costs, facilities, and your movement’s convenience before making a decision,” he added.
