The Minority Caucus in Parliament has threatened to initiate a vote of censure against Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa over allegations surrounding the government’s evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa.
The caucus said it would consider invoking Article 82 of the 1992 Constitution and Order 138 of Parliament’s Standing Orders to begin proceedings against the minister if he remained in office amid the controversy.
The Minority said the proposed move was aimed at promoting accountability and protecting the integrity of public office.
“Should the minister remain in office, the minority in Parliament will consider initiating the parliamentary process for a vote of censure under Article 82 of the Constitution and Order 138 of the Standing Orders of Parliament against the Minister,” it stated.
The threat adds to calls for Mr Ablakwa to take responsibility for the allegations surrounding the evacuation exercise, which has come under scrutiny over reported discrepancies in expenditure and the support packages received by some returnees.
Under Article 82 of the Constitution, a motion of censure against a minister must receive the support of at least two-thirds of all Members of Parliament to be carried.
If the motion succeeds, the President is required to revoke the minister’s appointment unless the minister resigns voluntarily.
The Minority’s announcement signals a possible escalation of the parliamentary response to the controversy, although the caucus has indicated that it is considering the process rather than confirming that a formal motion has been filed.
