First Deputy Speaker blocks Minority’s motion on public service terminations

First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor has dismissed a private member’s motion from the Minority caucus seeking an investigation into the termination of public service appointments made after December 7, 2024.

The motion, introduced by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, alongside Okaikwei Central MP Patrick Boamah and Old Tafo MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah, argued that the dismissals violated good governance principles and citizens’ rights.

However, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga opposed the motion, stating that the matter was already subject to legal proceedings.

Upholding the objection, Ahiafor ruled that debating the motion could lead to prejudicial remarks.

“There was a preliminary objection and the attention of the house has been drawn to a lawsuit pending before the Supreme Court as mentioned above. This action is challenging the constitutionality of the action of the chief of staff seeking a declaration and prohibition among others directed at the heads of government institutions to refrain from proceeding with the directive of the Chief of Staff.

“Honourable members, I have perused the writs and nine reliefs were sought. Honourable members, given our constitutional and procedural arrangement, permitting the motion and subsequent debates on the matter in question or constituting or mandating a committee of this house to do an enquiry into this matter will be a direct violation of our standing order particularly Standing Order 103,” he stated.