Just 20 Members of Parliament out of the 275 expected to be in the House were present during proceedings on Tuesday, February 10, raising serious concerns about absenteeism and commitment to parliamentary duties.
The startling turnout — seven MPs on the Speaker’s left and 13 on his right — forced Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin to openly express his frustration, describing the situation as unacceptable and damaging to the integrity of the House.
Addressing the near-empty chamber, Bagbin warned that such conduct amounted to a betrayal of the oaths MPs swore during their swearing-in, stressing that Parliament cannot function effectively when the vast majority of the people’s representatives are absent.
“These days, it is difficult for me to ask you to recite the national pledge because what is coming out of your mouths contradicts your actions,” the Speaker said.
He reminded MPs that parliamentary sittings should take priority over all other engagements, noting that leaders in particular must set the example by appearing in the chamber before attending to external duties.
“At least, appear here, start the work, and then you can move on. But when we came, the number was only 20 — seven to my left and 13 to my right,” he stated.
The incident has sparked public embarrassment, especially as Parliament — the highest law-making body of the land — struggles to conduct business with less than 10 per cent attendance of its full membership.
