The MP for Shai-Osudoku, David Assumeng, who raised concerns about the status of three independent candidates who switched allegiance to the NPP, could be facing disciplinary action from the Majority caucus. Leaders of the majority side in parliament are said to be angry with the MP for coming out publicly on the matter without their approval. The MP, in an interview with JoyNews, raised concerns about the status of the three Independent MPs Joe Osei-Owusu for Bekwai, MP for Nkawkaw, Seth Agyei Baah and MP for Bosome-Freho, Ofori Kuragu who contested for the Parliamentary primaries of the NPP, a clear indication they’ve switched allegiance. Article 97 (1) (H) of the Constitution states that “A Member of Parliament shall vacate his seat in Parliament if he was elected a Member of Parliament as an Independent Candidate and joins a political party. Standing Order 18 of the rules of the House also provides that the seat of a member shall be declared vacant by the Speaker under Clause (1) (b) to (h) of Article 97 of the Constitution. This when carried through will create a vacancy and which can be only be filled by a by-election. However, the critical issue is that, per the same constitution, a by-election cannot be held three months to the general election. This is a particularly difficult situation, and perhaps explains why the majority caucus is unhappy with Mr. Assumeng for speaking on the matter too soon. Former MP for Tamale Central, Dr Wayo Seini who announced his resignation from the NDC party on 2nd March 2006, crossed carpet to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) right on the floor of the House. The speaker at the time, Ebenezer Sekyi Hughes, then declared the seat vacant and a by election was subsequently held. But in the case of the three MPs, the house is yet to debate on the issue before the speaker announces her ruling on the subject matter. Also, with 3 months to the elections, it’s unclear whether they’ll be made to complete their term. In a telephone conversation with Joe Osei Owusu, he tells Joy News he’ll rather adopt the wait and see attitude while waiting on the Speaker to rule. Majority leader Cletus Avoka, who would not speak on camera however said, Hon. Assumeng made an infantile statement which could lead him to facing the disciplinary committee. Leadership of the minority side will also not speak on the matter till the speaker rules on it.