Accra – Public anger is mounting across Ghana following chaotic scenes in Parliament on Tuesday, with citizens expressing dismay and accusing their representatives of betraying the nation’s democratic principles.
Members of the Minority Caucus triggered the disorder when they abandoned their seats and converged in the centre of the parliamentary chamber to protest the declaration of the Kpandai seat as vacant. The protest rapidly escalated, involving pushing, heated gestures, and shouting, culminating in a brief scuffle that necessitated intervention from parliamentary marshals and a subsequent suspension of proceedings.
The Minority contends that the declaration is not only unlawful but also a violation of due process. They maintain that the decision is devoid of constitutional backing and was deliberately crafted to alter the political composition of Parliament.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from Ghanaians. A concerned resident, speaking to JoyNews, lamented, “In fact, I feel embarrassed and ashamed that people described as honourable members are the ones engaging in this kind of activity.”
Another citizen expressed disillusionment, stating, “Every one of us is qualified to be in Parliament, but we have given our mandate to these individuals to represent us, to make laws in the interest of citizens and the nation, and look at what’s going on. It’s not right.”
Young Ghanaians voiced particular disappointment, with one telling JoyNews, “These are leaders we look up to. We expect that when we, the young ones, step in someday, we can hold the mantle with dignity. But when we see them behave this way, it’s very, very disheartening. It is beneath them to show this kind of attitude.”
The scenes have prompted calls for greater decorum and respect for the institutions of democracy, with many questioning whether the conduct of the MPs reflects the values of the Ghanaian people.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE