Minority Threatens To Boycott Parliament Over Ato Forson Trial

The Minority caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has declared its unwavering support for Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, amid his ongoing trial. The caucus members have stated they will only attend parliamentary sessions after the court proceedings on days scheduled for the hearing of Dr. Forson’s ambulance case trial have concluded.

This firm stance was announced by Minority Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza, on Tuesday, June 11. The decision comes in response to the High Court judge, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, denying a request from Dr. Forson’s lawyers. The request sought permission for Dr. Forson to attend significant parliamentary activities scheduled for the same day as his trial.

Justice Asare-Botwe’s denial isn’t the first of its kind. Last week, she similarly rejected a request from the Parliament of Ghana that would have allowed Dr. Forson to participate in a crucial meeting of the Parliamentary Service Board. This meeting was to make important decisions ahead of Parliament’s resumption, and the NDC Caucus was left without representation.

The Minority caucus has expressed its frustration with these denials, viewing them as hindrances to Dr. Forson’s parliamentary duties. Their decision to potentially boycott Parliament sessions is a clear indication of their commitment to supporting their leader during this legal ordeal.