Nine civil society organizations (CSOs) focused on monitoring parliamentary affairs have commended the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, for his efforts in addressing the recent chaotic scenes at a sitting of the Appointments Committee.
In a press statement issued on Monday, February 3, the groups expressed support for the Speaker’s decision to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable. They described this action as crucial in maintaining the integrity of Parliament, emphasizing that swift and decisive measures will help restore discipline and ensure that parliamentary proceedings are conducted with the expected decorum.
The CSOs also lauded Mr. Bagbin’s commitment to enforcing Parliament’s Standing Orders, stating that adherence to these rules is essential in curbing the decline in parliamentary discipline, rebuilding public trust in democracy, and safeguarding the reputation of Ghana’s Parliament.
Additionally, the groups called for severe sanctions against those found culpable, arguing that stricter punishments and financial surcharges for damages would serve as a deterrent to future misconduct.
The chaos erupted during the vetting of the nominee for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, when members of the Appointments Committee clashed over whether to continue the process late into the night or not. The disagreement escalated, leading to the destruction of tables and microphones in the vetting conference room. The Speaker in response suspended four MPs who played a central role in the disruption. He has also established a committee to investigate the matter and has pledged to take necessary steps to restore the dignity of the House.
