Minority MPs expressed their displeasure over the First Deputy Speaker’s action
A heated argument between the Minority and the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, over his refusal to permit a statement on the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association’s (GRNMA) ongoing strike led to the premature adjournment of Parliament on Thursday.
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, the Ranking Member on the Health Committee, expressed concern over the industrial action, which has crippled healthcare services nationwide since June 4 and reportedly resulted in several deaths.
He requested an urgent discussion on the matter, but the Deputy Speaker rejected the request insisting that the Majority Leader had moved for adjournment of the House.
Dr. Afriye, the MP for Effiduase/Asokore and a medical practitioner, was dissatisfied with the Deputy Speaker’s decision and insisted on being heard, citing the issue as a national emergency.
This sparked a heated argument within the chamber as the Minority side rallied behind their colleague, demanding that he be allowed to speak.
However, Hon. Ahiafor, who is known for his sometimes abrasive approach, directed the Marshal of Parliament to remove Hon. Nana Ayew Afriye from the chamber.
As the Marshal moved to carry out the order, Minority MPs surrounded Dr. Afriye in an attempt to prevent his removal.
First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor, described by some as cantankerous, has been involved in several confrontations with the Minority caucus, particularly during the vetting of ministerial nominees by the Appointments Committee, which he chairs.
He has clashed on multiple occasions with the Minority Leader, who also serves as the Ranking Member on the Appointments Committee, at times leading to the suspension of vetting sessions.
Ahiafor’s leadership style has been criticized by some governance experts, who have called on him to adopt a more accommodating and collaborative approach.
KA
