The Parliament of Ghana was thrown into chaos on the evening of Thursday, 30th January 2025, as Members of Parliament from the NDC Majority and NPP Minority caucuses engaged in heated exchanges and near fisticuffs during the Appointments Committee’s sitting. The commotion erupted due to disagreements over the vetting process, specifically concerning the refusal to proceed with the outstanding nominees—Kwabena Mintah Akandoh (Minister-designate for Health) and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs).
The chaos unfolded after the vetting of Transport Minister-designate Joseph Bukari Nikpe, when NPP Minority MPs requested an adjournment, citing exhaustion. However, NDC Majority MPs opposed the request and insisted on continuing with the proceedings. This led to a tense standoff, with Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor urging the Clerk of Parliament to swear in the next nominee, sparking a heated confrontation.
The disagreement quickly escalated into chaos, with MPs flipping chairs, damaging tables, speakers, microphones, and other parliamentary equipment. Security personnel were called in to restore order, with over 10 police officers deployed to calm the situation. After nearly 30 minutes of verbal exchanges, near fisticuffs, and hooting, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga addressed the media and apologised for the incident, acknowledging the damage done to parliamentary equipment.
The Appointments Committee, which was initially set to vet eight ministerial nominees, faced significant delays due to the extended questioning of Minister-designate for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin grilled George for over four hours, further exacerbating tensions within the committee.
In response to the chaos, the Minority Leader defended his caucus’s right to ask thorough questions, accusing NDC MPs of trying to intimidate his members. The incident has reignited memories of a similar chaotic scene during the election of Speaker Alban Bagbin on 7th January 2021, which resulted in military personnel storming Parliament.
The latest development serves as a stark reminder of the fragile political climate in Ghana and the need for civility and respect in parliamentary proceedings. The incident has highlighted the importance of maintaining decorum and professionalism in the country’s legislative processes to uphold the integrity of Parliament and promote constructive dialogue among lawmakers.
