Tensions escalated during a session of Parliament’s Appointments Committee as members of the Minority and Majority Caucuses engaged in a heated dispute over the vetting of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The disagreement arose when the Minority proposed postponing the vetting to Friday, citing concerns about the day’s proceedings. However, the Majority opposed the suggestion, insisting that the vetting should proceed as scheduled.
What began as a disagreement quickly descended into chaos, with some Minority members disrupting the session by breaking tables and microphones to prevent the process from continuing. Despite this, the Majority remained resolute, arguing that the committee was adhering to its planned schedule and that proceedings should not be interrupted.
As tensions escalated, security personnel were deployed to the conference room to restore order. The Minority maintained their stance, insisting that an earlier agreement had been reached to vet only four nominees before adjourning. With neither side willing to back down, the committee’s work came to a standstill.
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga later addressed the disorder, making a passionate appeal for calm while announcing a change in venue for the continuation of the process.
“Ghana has one of the most respected and functioning democracies, admired by many across the world. Let us not tarnish the enviable image we have built,” he cautioned, urging MPs to exercise restraint.
He further explained that the extent of damage to equipment in the conference room made it impossible to proceed with the vetting.
“The destruction of microphones means the media cannot transmit proceedings live to the public. Vetting is about assessing and evaluating nominees, and without working equipment, this process cannot continue,” he stated.
He added that technical staff had closed for the day, and even if they were available, replacing the damaged equipment overnight would be impractical.
Due to the disruptions, Mr. Ayariga announced that a new venue would be designated for the vetting process the following morning.
“By tomorrow morning, we will identify an alternative venue within Parliament to continue the vetting,” he assured.
Before concluding, the Majority Leader reminded members to be mindful of time constraints and the expectations of their supporters.
“We all have people we represent, and we must use our time wisely during vetting so that ministers can assume their roles and deliver on their mandates,” he emphasized.
The chaotic scenes at the vetting session have reignited concerns about the state of parliamentary proceedings and the conduct of Ghana’s lawmakers.
