The Member of Parliament for Assin North, Hon. James Gyakye Quayson delivered a compelling speech in commemoration of Black History Month, calling for a swift Passage of dual citizenship amendment bill to address issues of democracy in Ghana’s governance system.
His speech centered on the resilience of Ghanaians, the impact of historical injustices, and the urgent need to address systemic challenges that hinder national development.
“Mr. Speaker, Black History Month allows us to reflect on the perseverance of our people throughout history. Slavery, institutional racism, and the ongoing fight for equality.”
Hon. James Gyakye Quayson MP for Assin North
He noted that Africa, despite its vast wealth of natural resources, remains underdeveloped due to historical exploitation, colonization, and unfair global economic structures. This paradox, he argued, underscores the need for African leaders to reassess governance and development strategies to uplift the continent.
In his speech, Hon. Quayson strongly advocated for revising the laws restricting dual citizens from holding key political offices in Ghana.
“Mr. Speaker, the fight against dual citizenship restrictions on political ambition is not a personal hate battle, but a national conversation.”
Hon. James Gyakye Quayson MP for Assin North
He argued that Ghana’s constitution, while serving as a democratic guidepost, must evolve to accommodate global realities, especially regarding the rights of Ghanaians in the diaspora.
“How do we marginalize those who have sought better opportunities abroad yet remain deeply connected to Ghana? How do we exclude them from leadership when their hearts, skills, and resources are dedicated to building our nation?”
Hon. James Gyakye Quayson MP for Assin North
Hon. Quayson urged Parliament to expedite the passage of the Dual Citizenship Amendment Bill, which would allow qualified dual citizens to contest political positions without restrictions. He stressed that this amendment would harness the expertise and resources of Ghanaians in the diaspora for national progress.
Taxation and Economic Responsibilities of Dual Citizens
Moreover, the Member of Parliament for Damango Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor touched on the economic obligations of dual citizens.
“One [thing] I’m also passionate about is the question of taxation, so that if you are a dual citizen and you’re entitled to be a Member of Parliament, you’re entitled to be a Chief Justice, and you are earning your income from, say, the United Kingdom, the Ghanaian tax regime should be able to catch up with you as well.”
Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor MP for Damango
Hon. Jinapor argued that this measure would ensure economic fairness and accountability, preventing financial loopholes that could lead to loss of revenue for the nation.
Strengthening Democracy in Africa
Meanwhile, the MP for Madina Hon. Francis- Xavier Kojo Sosu raised concerns about the fragility of African democracies.
“Look at how our democracies, very weak democracies, sometimes even fake democracies. Because every time, people are looking for opportunities to cheat just to get to power.”
Hon. Francis- Xavier Kojo Sosu MP for Madina
To address these challenges, Hon. Sosu called for a collective reflection by African leaders to develop strong democratic institutions that uphold transparency, accountability, and integrity. He stressed that true democracy should serve the interests of the people rather than be a tool for power-hungry politicians.
Age Dependency and Developing African Solutions
Hon. Sosu emphasized that there is the need for Africa to break free from excessive reliance on aged leaders and embrace indigenous solutions to its unique challenges. He emphasized that Africa must prioritize youth leadership and innovation to drive sustainable development.
“And so, I think African leaders will have to do a true reflection. And as we do this true reflection, one of the things we also have to understand is that the age dependency of African leaders in African countries, we must move from that and develop local and indigenous solutions for African problems.”
Hon. Francis- Xavier Kojo Sosu MP for Madina
By investing in homegrown solutions and empowering younger generations, Africa can unlock its full potential and achieve meaningful progress.
Hon. Sosu concluded by linking his calls for reform to the broader theme of Black History Month. He emphasized that if Africa takes concrete steps toward self-reliance, democratic integrity, and inclusive governance, the celebration of Black History Month will hold greater significance for all Africans.
“If we’re able to do this, then the Black History Month will make a lot of meaning to all of us as Africans.”
Hon. Francis- Xavier Kojo Sosu MP for Madina
The discussion on the floor of parliament is a message resonating with a call to action for both Ghanaian and African leaders to make bold, progressive changes that align with the aspirations of their people.
An advocacy for constitutional reform, fair taxation, democratic integrity, and youth leadership presents a roadmap for a more inclusive and prosperous Ghana and Africa at large.
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