The Majority Chief Whip, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, has called for a streamlining of the vetting process to ensure that ranking members on the Appointments Committee are given specific time frames to ask questions during the committee’s hearings.
Speaking before the investigative committee, Mr Dafeamekpor noted that although it’s a common practice for ranking members to have unlimited time to interrogate nominees, he believes this practice must be reconsidered.
He suggested that the chairman should set clear limits, such as allowing each member to ask three substantive questions, along with three follow-up questions.
“He explained this would ensure a more structured and efficient process, with each member knowing they are allowed a maximum of six questions, regardless of how they are framed. “This would allow them to complete their inquiries within a reasonable time frame, whether 30 minutes or an hour”, he said.
He also raised concerns about the excessive power given to the ranking member. He argued that this could lead to endless questioning, especially since the ranking member also has the ability to follow up on other members’ questions.
He commented, “The ranking member has been given so much power to interrogate matters, sometimes to infinity. This poses a problem when they follow up on other members’ questions. I don’t think it’s right.”
He emphasised that the ranking member should also be given a time frame to ensure the process remains fair and structured for all involved.
Without these guidelines, he warned, “If the ranking member attempts to grandstand, the vetting could take days. There need to be clear guidelines in place to streamline the process.”
Mr Dafeamekpor underscored the importance of implementing clear, structured guidelines to improve the efficiency and fairness of the vetting process.
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