Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has expressed deep disappointment over the disorder that overshadowed the vetting of ministerial nominees on Thursday January 30, describing it as a disappointing display of indiscipline.
Appearing before the committee investigating the incident on Wednesday, February 5, she lamented the lack of tolerance, camaraderie and respect for the institution of Parliament, stating that the events reflected a worrying disregard for parliamentary decorum.
Sharing her observations, she recounted the shocking breakdown of order in the committee room. According to her at the center of the turmoil was Gifty Jiagge-Gobah, Clerk of the Appointments Committee, a highly experienced parliamentary officer who had worked her way up to a crucial role. Despite her professionalism and commitment, she was subjected to open disrespect, an act that Madam Gomashie said undermined the credibility of the entire vetting process.
She further criticized the committee’s leadership for failing to step in and protect the clerk from the hostility she faced. What should have been an orderly and structured vetting session quickly spiraled into chaos, with rising tensions culminating in the destruction of state property an indication of the complete breakdown of control.
In her testimony, she stressed the importance of upholding discipline and mutual respect in parliamentary proceedings. She noted that the events of that day were not just an attack on an individual but a challenge to the core values of Ghana’s democracy.
