Deputy Whip Criticizes Mahama Over OSP Bill Withdrawal Request

First Deputy Minority Whip, Habib Iddrisu, has sharply criticised President John Mahama’s directive to the Majority Leader and Chief Whip to withdraw a Private Members’ Bill aimed at abolishing the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

Mr. Iddrisu labelled the President’s action as “executive control” over Parliament, warning that it significantly undermines the legislature’s independence. He made these remarks on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, December 11.

“Mr Speaker, the inadequate releases to Parliament, coupled with the executive’s desire to control Parliament, have led to a situation where the President is now dictating to Members of Parliament. Even when the Majority Chief Whip and Leader intend to present a Private Member’s Bill, the President is instructing them to reconsider,” he stated.

“We possess the official letter from the presidency confirming this instruction. Mr Speaker, the executive branch has no constitutional authority to dictate proceedings within Parliament.”

The criticism stems from President Mahama’s request to Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader, and Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the Majority Chief Whip, to halt their efforts to introduce the Office of the Special Prosecutor (Repeal) Bill, 2025.

A statement released by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, confirmed the directive. “President John Dramani Mahama has requested the Majority Leader and Majority Chief Whip in Parliament to withdraw the Private Member’s Bill tabled for the repeal of the Act establishing the Office of Special Prosecutor,” the statement read.

According to the statement, the President’s request followed his public commitment to strengthening, rather than abolishing, the OSP. This commitment was made after a meeting with the National Peace Council on Wednesday, December 10.

President Mahama also reiterated his call for the OSP to actively pursue corruption cases, thereby restoring public trust and fulfilling its mandate.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE