Ghana’s Parliamentary Drama: A Disturbing Lack of Accountability And Patriotism

By Joy Tukpeyi , Accra.

In a disheartening turn of events, Ghana’s Parliament was forced to adjourn its sitting to next week Tuesday due to a lack of quorum. This development has raised serious concerns about the commitment of some members of parliament to their duties, especially after fervently seeking the mandate of Ghanaians to represent them.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) members of parliament alone could have formed a quorum, raising the question: are the majority of parliamentarians failing to attend sessions? This incident comes on the heels of an alarming display of unruly behavior, where members of parliament were seen breaking chairs, tables, and other equipment, and using vulgar and unprintable language on the august and sacred floor of parliament.

Speaker of Parliament, in his attempt to restore order, initially meted out punishment to those who disgraced their positions with such unruly conduct. However, he subsequently let go of this punishment, setting a dangerous precedent. This leniency has emboldened some members, who now threaten peace by inciting violence, secure in the knowledge that they will face no consequences.

Ghana’s parliamentary representatives seem to have formed a band of brothers and sisters, finding it difficult to hold each other accountable. The reluctance to enforce discipline undermines the very foundation of democratic governance and the rule of law.

Article 97 of the Ghanaian Constitution clearly outlines the grounds for vacating a parliamentary seat, which includes absenteeism without permission from the Speaker, among other reasons. The lack of adherence to these constitutional provisions not only weakens the legislative process but also erodes public trust in the institution meant to represent their interests.

Furthermore, we call for the salaries and other emoluments of absentee parliamentarians to be withheld. What kind of example are they setting for the rest of the working class in the country? This behavior is not only unpatriotic but also disgraceful. It appears that some members of parliament and the Speaker are treating their roles with a business-as-usual attitude.

President Mahama’s reset agenda cannot succeed with such unpatriotic behavior from our leaders. Hardworking Ghanaians—teachers, nurses, doctors, farmers, and other artisans—are watching. They deserve representatives who demonstrate dedication, integrity, and accountability.

It is imperative that the Speaker of Parliament upholds the integrity of the House by following through on disciplinary actions against members who engage in misconduct. Failure to do so not only compromises the dignity of parliament but also sets a tone of impunity that can have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s peace and stability.

The citizens of Ghana deserve better from their elected representatives. It is high time that parliamentarians demonstrate the dedication and accountability expected of them, ensuring that the sacred halls of parliament are a place of respect, decorum, and effective governance. The future of Ghana’s democracy depends on it.

Source: Joy Tukpeyi, Accra.