Ghana’s Parliament has recently been embroiled in controversy and disorder, raising concerns about the erosion of dignity, discipline, and leadership within the legislature. Two major incidents—the disrespect toward First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor and the chaotic ministerial vetting that resulted in destroyed microphones and furniture—have shaken public confidence in the integrity of Ghana’s governance.
Disrespect Toward the First Deputy Speaker
The first incident unfolded when Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, MP for Effiduase-Asokore, attempted to make an unsanctioned statement regarding the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) strike. Presiding at the time, F8irst Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor rejected the request, leading to a heated exchange and defiance of parliamentary authority.
When Ahiafor ordered Dr. Afriyie’s removal from the chamber, Minority MPs physically shielded him, preventing the Marshal from enforcing the directive. The confrontation escalated into verbal clashes and unprintable language, prompting Speaker Alban Bagbin to intervene.
In a firm rebuke, Bagbin reminded MPs: “This House is governed by rules. When the mace is upright, all must respect its authority. If we fail to uphold discipline, we fail the people who placed us here.” He stressed that parliamentary statements must be submitted in advance and approved to maintain order.
Ministerial Vetting Descends into Chaos
The second incident occurred during the vetting of Minister of Health-designate Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Minister of Foreign Affairs-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Tensions flared between the Majority and Minority Caucuses, leading to physical altercations and destruction of parliamentary property.
Disagreements over the vetting schedule led to Minority MPs overturning tables and breaking microphones, disrupting proceedings. The chaos prompted heightened security presence, with police intervening to restore order.
Following the disruption, a senior parliamentary officer lamented: “Parliament is supposed to be a beacon of leadership and decorum. This is disgraceful—Ghanaians expect better from us.” Despite the destruction, parliamentary staff swiftly repaired the damaged microphones and furniture within 24 hours, ensuring that vetting could resume. However, the incident has raised concerns about discipline, accountability, and the integrity of Ghana’s legislative process.
A Call to Honor: MPs Must Rise Above the Chaos
Ghanaians are watching. They are disappointed, not just in isolated misconduct but in the erosion of dignity and leadership within Parliament. If gold rusts, what will iron do? If those entrusted with shaping the nation succumb to reckless behavior, how can citizens uphold the values that leaders fail to embody?
Parliament is not a battlefield, nor a playground for personal rivalries. It is a sacred institution, carrying the hopes of millions who expect decisions to be made with wisdom, integrity, and discipline. Disorder and disregard for parliamentary procedures do not merely tarnish individual reputations—they weaken the foundation of governance itself.
A disappointed citizen voiced the growing frustration: “Our MPs are supposed to lead by example. If they resort to insults and destruction, what message are they sending to the youth? Parliament must rise above political pettiness and act with maturity.”
The people of Ghana have placed their trust in MPs, believing in their ability to steer the country toward justice and prosperity. That trust is not unconditional—it must be earned and protected through actions that reflect honor, respect, and a commitment to national progress.
Parliamentarians must ask themselves: Will history remember you as defenders of Ghana’s democracy, or as its betrayers? Leadership is a responsibility, not an entitlement. The people demand discipline, maturity, and humility in the execution of duty. Let this be a turning point—where Parliament rises above pettiness and chaos, and commits once again to the noble purpose of service.
Ghana deserves better. Parliament must do better.
Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua
[email protected]
