MPs neglect Parliament after becoming ministers – Ayikoi Otoo

Former Attorney General Nii Ayikoi Otoo supports reviewing the constitutional rule. This rule allows Members of Parliament to be appointed as Ministers of State. His comments follow suggestions from former Speaker Prof. Mike Aaron Oquaye. He called for a clear separation between the legislature and executive branches.

In an interview on Eyewitness News, Ayikoi Otoo expressed concerns about the current setup. He believes it weakens Parliament's effectiveness. MPs who become ministers often focus on their executive roles instead of legislative duties. Some Majority MPs neglect their parliamentary responsibilities entirely.

Ayikoi Otoo noted that once MPs become ministers, they prioritize ministerial work. He stated that often, it's the Minority who do most parliamentary work. He proposed changing the Constitution to allow more ministers from outside Parliament. This change could enhance the independence and effectiveness of the legislature.

He emphasized that many Majority MPs are busy with contracts and other activities. As a result, they may not attend Parliament regularly. "The time has come for us to review this decision," he said. He suggested giving the President power to appoint all or most ministers from outside Parliament.

This proposal aims to improve parliamentary oversight and functionality in Ghana.