Whenever time tested principles and values are traded for other considerations, men of integrity would have had enough. That seems to be the case?
It is likely that Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu may have had enough as a Ranking Member of the Appointments Committee of the 8th Parliament of the 4th Republic and there may be a few more of his kind in waiting?
Hon. Ablakwa’s resignation did not come as a surprise.
It signals to the critical mind, his personal frustration and disappointment in his colleagues and the high likelihood that his colleagues may have been thinking of 2024 elections instead of focusing on the job at hand?
To the innocent mind of Hon. Ablakwa, it was time to do a good job through proper scrutiny of nominees and rejection of those not-fit-for- purpose.
But, “lailai”.
To others, it was time to prepare for next elections as every pesewa would count towards winning primaries and thus securing their seat in Parliament come 2025.
To make matters worse, the Legislature doesn’t control resources; but the Executive does.
So, most NDC MPs would have no choice than to lobby approved Minister for development Projects in their Constituency or face the wrath of Constituents come 2024. Truth be told, eight years in opposition could have a telling effect on most minority MPs, especially those who may be seeking a third term or new.
The temptation to be compromised is thus high, unless they “Ablakwalized”.
Are you a doubting Thomas with Easter approaching?
Take a look at the outcome of voting recorded during the approval of President’s Ministerial nominees.
It is clear that NDC MPs in Parliament may not be singing from the same hymnal.
Hon. Ablakwa’s resignation may just be the tip of the iceberg. If care is not taken, Government will have a field day, exploiting the situation to its advantage and reduce to nothing the seeming balance and hope that 137:137:1 offered from the beginning of the 8th Parliament.
So far, the President seems to be scoring high marks in Parliament.
The solution is CHANGE or there will be many more Ablakwas.
By Elvis Ativoe
