The Minority in Parliament has objected to the use of numerical strength to determine the order of debate on the State of the Nation Address by President Mahama.

After First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor called on Bia East MP Richard Acheampong to debate, following a contribution from Bolgatanga Central MP Isaac Adongo, both from the Majority side, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin expressed his opposition to the arrangement.

“Mr. Speaker, it has never been the practice of this house when it comes to debate, we do it based on numerical strength. The Minority will have less time, and to worsen the case, the Minority is given less opportunity in terms of numbers all because the Majority has more.

“I have had cause to draw the attention of my colleagues in the Majority, but only yesterday, we were to the right of the Speaker. I recall all the concerns that the Minority then raised and had to bend over to ensure that they were heard. Mr. Speaker, this precedent that is being set, let us be careful,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, in response, stated that the arrangement will not be altered. He urged the Minority to stage a walkout if they are not interested in participating in the debate.