By King Amoah
In recent weeks, the atmosphere within Ghana’s Parliament has been tumultuous, characterized by rising political tension and acrimony between Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
This discord has not only led to significant legislative impasses but has also resulted in court actions, further complicating an already fragile political environment. As a result, a growing chorus of disapproval from Ghanaians has emerged, denouncing the behavior of their elected representatives.
Interviews conducted across various regions of Ghana reveal a palpable sense of disappointment among citizens. Many Ghanaians have expressed confusion over the tactics employed by MPs, particularly the absenteeism that has plagued Parliament.
The sentiment is clear: these elected officials, entrusted with the responsibility of governance, seem more interested in engaging in petty conflicts and political boycotts than addressing the pressing issues facing the nation.
A,“As legislators, their primary duty should be to resolve conflicts, not exacerbate them,” observed Kwesi Jones from Cape Coast in the Central Region.
Residents are rightly questioning the logic behind such actions. Ghanaians expect their MPs to represent their interests and work towards solutions rather than stir unnecessary chaos. “We did not elect them to create confusion, but to solve our problems,” one interviewee remarked, highlighting the frustration that many feel towards Parliament’s current trajectory.
The predicament facing the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, is equally significant. Many Ghanaians have urged him to respect the recent court rulings regarding the parliamentary disputes rather than allow the situation to fester.
Observers assert that a decisive and wise approach could help restore order and functionality to the legislative body, allowing Parliament to get back to its central task of lawmaking.
The overarching sentiment among Ghanaians is one of disappointment; citizens see the current political infighting as not only a disgrace but also a dereliction of duty. “You are shameful people to Ghanaian politics and Parliament,” Jones stated emphatically.
This frustration is compounded by the realization that MPs continue to receive their salaries while failing to fulfill their mandates a reality that many see as unacceptable.
In an age where political unity and cooperation are more crucial than ever, Ghanaians are calling for a return to civility and dialogue within Parliament. The expectation is clear: lawmakers should prioritize the country’s welfare over political squabbles, Jones asserted.
