Former Member of Parliament for Kwadaso Constituency, Dr. Samiu Kwadwo Nuamah, has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to consider instituting a policy that allows first-time Members of Parliament (MPs) to contest unopposed in parliamentary primaries.
Speaking on the Oyerepa Breakfast Show, Dr. Nuamah argued that such a move would provide first-term MPs the breathing space to learn, grow, and effectively represent their constituencies without the constant pressure of political competition.
“Let’s make a law to allow first-time MPs to study parliamentary proceedings because there’s pressure on them all the time,” he said.
“We should allow them to settle down and share their ideologies with constituents.”
According to Dr. Nuamah, one term in Parliament is often not enough for new MPs to make a meaningful impact, especially given the steep learning curve of legislative work and the administrative demands of managing a constituency.
He added that giving MPs the chance to complete at least two terms without the threat of internal competition would enable them to focus on development projects and constituency work.
“By the time he or she finishes the second term, they might have brought a lot of development to the constituency. If they fail to deliver after two terms, then the electorate can decide to vote them out,” he emphasised.
Dr. Nuamah’s suggestion comes amid growing debate within political circles about how to build institutional knowledge in Parliament and enhance the effectiveness of MPs, especially those new to the legislative process.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/Joseph Marfo
