The Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) has chided government over the appointment of Members of Parliament to boards of public institutions. The Majority Leader, Alban Babgin chairs the Civil Aviation Authority with Doe Adjaho First Deputy speaker chairing the National Health Insurance Authority and a host of other appointees. The CDD says the appointment amounts to conflict of interest. Theodore Jebleh, head of Public Affairs at the CDD told Joy News’ Evans Mensah on Monday “the cross branch appointment deepens the perception that parliament, especially the ruling party MPs exist to just serve the interest of the executive.” Mr. Jebleh said the independence of parliament is further weakened by such appointments since the MP’s when appointed onto such boards then become accountable to the executive rather than the legislature. He said “the practice is not correct. It does not strengthen and consolidate our democracy.” He argued the core business of the MPs is to make laws and sit on parliamentary committee meetings to deliberate on issues rather than owe allegiance to the executive on boards of state institutions. For a party which promised to strengthen parliament when it wins power, Jebleh is saddened by the decision taken by president, John Evans Atta Mills to appoint MPs onto boards of institutions. But the Majority Leader, Alban Bagbin disagrees. He said the appointment of MPs to boards does not compromise the independence of parliament. He argued MP’s do take part in policy formulation in the country, a task which is equally performed by boards of state institutions. He however admitted the issue of the core business of parliament needs to debated and a decision taken. Story by Nathan Gadugah/Myjoyonline