NDC reprimands Teye Nyaunu

Page 16. Feb 1, 2008
Story: Emmanuel Adu-Gyamerah
THE National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reprimanded the Member of Parliament (MP) for Lower Manya, Mr Michael Teye Nyaunu, for using an inappropriate channel to address his concern on the health of the flag bearer of the party, Professor John Evans Atta Mills.
At a closed-door meeting yesterday, Mr Nyaunu was reported to have apologised for using the wrong channel of communication, not the issues he raised.
Briefing the Daily Graphic on the outcome of the meeting, the General Secretary of the party, Mr Johnson Asiedu-Nketiah, said the MP breached Article 39 of the party’s constitution for using that mode of communication in airing his views.
“Although there are other sanctions, such as suspension for a specific period, removal from office and a fine, the party chose to reprimand the MP,” he said.
Mr Asiedu-Nketiah explained that the party was a democratic one which allowed its members to speak their mind freely. He, however, pointed out that that must be done in such a manner that the party was not put at a disadvantage.
He said during the meeting with the MP, which was also attended by the Deputy Minority Leader, Mr Edward Doe Adjaho, it was enquired from him whether he had any exclusive information about Professor Mills’s health.
He said the MP maintained his stance that he had come to such a conclusion as a result of his observation of the flag bearer.
He added that the National Council of the party would take the MP’s observation on board and conduct its own investigations, now that he had formally made it known.
“As far as we are concerned, Professor Mills was in good health before he left for South Africa and he is still the party’s flag bearer,” Mr Asiedu-Nketiah said.
Meanwhile, some Minority MPs have expressed their displeasure at the manner in which their colleague came out with his concerns, especially so when they concern the health of a prominent member of the party.
The NDC MP for Ketu South, Mr Albert Zigah, said although the MP should not be punished, he should be advised to use party structures to address issues of such sensitive nature.
To the MP, “even if Professor Mills is bed-ridden, with his right hand on drip and blood transfusion on the left hand, and with oxygen on him, we will still use him for the election”.