Dr Tony Aidoo Criticizes Rising Indiscipline in Ghana's Parliament
Former Deputy Minister and Ambassador to the Netherlands, Dr Tony Aidoo, has voiced serious concerns over the escalating disorder in Ghana’s Parliament, warning that the recent conduct of lawmakers reflects a worrying deterioration in democratic standards.
Dr Aidoo, speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show (SMS) on Wednesday, December 10, condemned the behaviour of Members of Parliament, particularly the Minority Caucus, during Tuesday’s chaotic proceedings. He criticized their decision to abandon their seats, occupy the centre aisle, and engage in physical confrontations that led to a suspension of the sitting.
“Yesterday, what happened in Parliament was not palatable at all,” he lamented, adding that while heckling is a common part of parliamentary debate, the events of Tuesday exceeded acceptable limits. He argued that the actions were not legitimate resistance but rather a deliberate attempt to obstruct proceedings—a form of filibustering.
Dr Aidoo specifically called out the prevention of the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, from speaking, describing it as a breach of parliamentary protocols and a sign of disrespect towards the Speaker. “To the extent that the Minority didn’t want the Majority Leader to speak, they breached democratic conduct, and they didn’t show any respect to the Speaker,” he stated.
He further emphasized that parliamentary standing orders dictate that members must remain seated and listen when the Speaker is addressing the House. According to Dr. Aidoo, the MPs involved disregarded this fundamental rule.
He also acknowledged the difficult conditions faced by the Hansard team in documenting the chaotic session, praising their efforts to accurately record the proceedings.
Beyond Tuesday’s incident, Dr Aidoo offered a sweeping critique of Ghana’s democratic progress since 1992. “Since 1992, I feel very sorry that this democracy has not endured to the benefit of the ordinary people,” he said, asserting that it has largely created a privileged “minority class of parasites” who prioritize party and personal interests over national development.
“You are there to serve national interest, not your party or individual or class interest,” he reminded the lawmakers.
Dr Aidoo stressed that the lack of decorum extends to both sides of the House. He argued that Parliament should not be treated like a marketplace for disruptive tactics, and that those involved in the disturbances have forfeited their right to be called “Honourable.” “All the people who took part should be stripped of their honourable titles. They are not honourable, they are dishonourable people,” he declared.
He concluded by stating that the Speaker was fully justified in removing the disruptive MPs from the chamber and should have done so.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
