A planned three-day orientation program for Members of Parliament (MPs) has been overshadowed by a boycott from the Minority in Parliament, citing concerns over the cost of the event.
The programme, currently ongoing at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, aims to equip MPs—particularly new entrants—with essential parliamentary skills, including legislative procedures, lobbying, advocacy, and debating techniques.
However, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin revealed that the Minority declined to participate after formally expressing their disapproval of the expenditure involved. “Their reason is that the cost component is too much, and they don’t want to be part of that,” he stated at the event’s opening ceremony.
The exact cost of the programme remains undisclosed, but Speaker Bagbin described the Minority’s decision as unfortunate, emphasizing the crucial role of such training in strengthening Ghana’s democracy.
He clarified that the choice of venue and associated costs were determined through a thorough assessment by a designated search committee, which evaluated multiple hospitality facilities before settling on Volta Serene Hotel.
“There is always a search party that assesses various options, looking at cost, facilities, and convenience before making a final decision. This is not a partisan arrangement,” the Speaker explained.
Despite the absence of the Minority, the orientation is proceeding as planned, aiming to prepare MPs for their responsibilities over the next four years. The training covers parliamentary procedures, legislative best practices, and key skills to enhance their effectiveness in the House.
The boycott has sparked discussions about parliamentary expenditure and financial accountability, with observers questioning whether the concerns raised by the Minority will prompt a review of such orientation programmes in the future.
