ACEPA Slams Parliament’s Vetting Process as Ineffective and Unfocused

The African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) has expressed serious concerns over the ongoing ministerial vetting process, calling it lacklustre and ineffective.

According to ACEPA, the conduct of members of Parliament, both from the Majority and Minority parties, has significantly undermined the vetting exercise, preventing crucial scrutiny of nominees on key national issues.

In an interview with Citi FM, Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director of ACEPA, urged a comprehensive reassessment of the Appointments Committee’s procedures.

He emphasized the need for a more rigorous process that ensures ministerial candidates are thoroughly examined on their qualifications and ability to lead their respective ministries.

“This process has been far from satisfactory,” Dr. Draman stated, highlighting the need for changes.

“There is an urgent need for a review of how the Appointments Committee conducts its work. Unfortunately, we are witnessing an opportunity being missed to hold nominees accountable on crucial matters.”

Dr. Draman also criticized the current focus of the vetting process, pointing out that discussions often veer toward trivial issues rather than assessing the competence, integrity, and suitability of nominees for their roles.

“Rather than discussing qualifications, the Minority seems to focus on irrelevant matters,” he observed.

Furthermore, Dr. Draman expressed disappointment with the Majority’s approach to the process, which he described as overly casual and overly supportive of the nominees.

While understanding that party affiliations may influence the process, he stressed that this should not lead to a lack of accountability or oversight.

“The Majority seems to treat this exercise as a friendly match,” Dr. Draman added. “It’s essential that all parties take the process seriously, as it serves the best interests of the country.”

ACEPA has called for Parliament to adopt a more professional and rigorous approach to vetting ministerial nominees to ensure the process fulfils its intended purpose of selecting competent and qualified leaders.