The minister of Communications and Digitalization and the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful recently expressed her concerns about the growing chaotic image of Ghana’s 8th Parliament.
As one of the nation’s veteran lawmakers, her sentiments reflect a deep apprehension regarding the reputation and decorum of the current Parliament.
Hon. Owusu-Ekuful, who has witnessed numerous parliamentary sessions throughout her political career, urged her fellow lawmakers and the leadership of Parliament to adopt a more constructive and disciplined approach to resolving disagreements.
In her address, Hon. Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the damaging impression that recent events in Parliament have created.
“I am concerned about the image that this 8th Parliament is creating for itself as the most chaotic Parliament that we’ve ever seen. And I think it’s wrong, and it is bad. And it doesn’t do the image of Parliament any good.”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful minister of Communications and Digitalization and the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West
Her statement comes in the wake of several high-profile incidents that have seen members of Parliament engage in heated confrontations, both verbal and physical.
These incidents, according to Hon. Owusu-Ekuful, have only served to undermine the authority and respect of the legislative body in the eyes of Ghanaians. She questioned the value of such confrontations, stating, “I don’t think there is anything to be gained in fights on the floor of Parliament.”
The Role of Leadership
In her view, the Speaker holds a crucial role in maintaining the dignity of the House.
“I’d urge the Speaker to sit with the leadership to ensure that, one, we can’t say we will not respect decisions of the Supreme Court. How do we do that in such a way that we minimize the disruption to our work?”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful minister of Communications and Digitalization and the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West
This call reflected her understanding of the balance needed between adhering to the rule of law, as represented by the Supreme Court, and the need to ensure that Parliament continues its work without unnecessary disruptions.
Hon. Owusu-Ekuful also underscored the importance of leadership in setting an example for others, both within Parliament and for the general public.
“Leadership must come together and send a clear signal that we can resolve our differences maturely instead of resorting to violence, insults, and fisticuffs.”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful minister of Communications and Digitalization and the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West
The Importance of Upholding Parliamentary Honor
“We call ourselves Honorable Members of Parliament. Our actions should also not debase the title that we put on ourselves, and our actions must also be honorable and not dishonorable.”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful minister of Communications and Digitalization and the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West
Her statement alluded to recent behaviors within Parliament, which have deviated from this standard. Hon. Owusu-Ekuful’s message is clear, as elected representatives, parliamentarians must hold themselves to a higher standard.
Setting an Example for the Youth
One of the key concerns raised by Hon. Owusu-Ekuful is the issue of setting an example.
“We need to set a good example for the young people of this country.” In her view, the behavior of parliamentarians has the potential to shape how the next generation views politics and governance.
Owusu-Ekuful expressed her hope that Parliament would rise above the current challenges and resolve its differences with calmness and maturity. She believes that such an approach will ensure that the institution of Parliament and Ghana’s democracy will emerge stronger. He noted; “If we don’t, we would have done a great disservice, not just to ourselves, but to succeeding generations.”
A Warning for the Speaker of Parliament
In a direct message to the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the critical role the Speaker must play in maintaining order.
“The manner in which he was sworn in was acrimonious enough. We don’t want him to end his tenure with another acrimonious situation, and I think it’s incumbent on him to also let cool heads prevail.”
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful minister of Communications and Digitalization and the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West
Her statement served as both a caution and a reminder to the Speaker that his leadership will be judged by how well he can steer Parliament through these challenging times.
As the leader of the legislative body, the Speaker is expected to ensure that order and decorum are maintained in the House.
Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful’s address provided a critical reflection on the current state of Ghana’s Parliament.
Her concerns about the chaotic image of the 8th Parliament, the role of leadership, and the need for members to uphold their honor resonate deeply with the ideals of good governance. She urges the Speaker and leadership to act swiftly to restore order and project a message of maturity, reminding Parliament that the example they set today will shape Ghana’s political landscape for years to come. “At the end of the day, Parliament as an institution, and our democracy, will be the winner,” she concluded.
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