Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West, has raised significant concerns regarding the increasing disorder in Ghana’s 8th Parliament. She has called on the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, to take immediate action to restore calm and order, arguing that without decisive leadership, this Parliament risks earning the reputation of being the most chaotic in Ghana’s legislative history. Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the challenges posed by the ongoing tensions between the two major parties, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), both of which are claiming majority status. This internal strife has contributed to a fractious atmosphere that, according to Owusu-Ekuful, undermines the integrity of Parliamentary proceedings.
In her comments, Owusu-Ekuful referenced the tumultuous environment that characterized Bagbin’s election as Speaker, recognizing the need for effective and strong leadership to navigate these troubled waters. She strongly condemned the rowdy behavior and conflicts taking place within the Parliament, expressing her belief that these issues not only tarnish the image of Parliament but also detract from its purpose as a pillar of democracy. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, she urged all factions to prioritize peace and stability, framing such an approach as essential for the nation’s progress and future governance.
She also conveyed her disappointment over the negative portrayal of the 8th Parliament, asserting that this chaos is unprecedented in Ghana’s political landscape. Owusu-Ekuful warned that the current turmoil could lead to a historical legacy that would reflect poorly on the Parliament and its members. Her remarks resonated during a media interaction at a recent event organized by the Cyber Security Authority, following the launch of an industry forum and the inauguration of an independent assessor. This timing underscores the importance of restoring order to Parliament to maintain national confidence in democratic institutions.
Owusu-Ekuful articulated her belief that the ongoing conflicts could have lasting repercussions not only for current lawmakers but also for future generations, who may judge the present Parliament harshly based on its conduct. She called upon Bagbin to engage with other leadership members in a collaborative effort to address these challenges, advocating for a cool-headed approach to governance. Her plea was rooted in the principle that the integrity of Parliament and democracy itself should be the priority of all involved, rather than personal or partisan conflicts.
Furthermore, she warned against allowing the current situation to simmer unchecked, suggesting that it would amount to a disservice to the nation. She pointedly remarked that a total breakdown of order under Bagbin’s leadership would negate the progress made in restoring parliamentary decorum and better governance. In her view, the acrimonious nature in which the speaker assumed his position should serve as a lesson for a more peaceful collaboration moving forward. It was clear that she believed proactive measures must be taken swiftly to avert a worsening crisis.
In conclusion, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful’s statements reflect a deep concern for the integrity and effectiveness of Ghana’s 8th Parliament. Her calls for restoring order, fostering cooperation among political factions, and prioritizing the image and functionality of Parliament speak to a broader obligation that all MPs hold towards their constituents and democratic ideals. As ongoing disputes threaten to undermine parliamentary proceedings, Owusu-Ekuful’s message serves as a rallying cry for lawmakers to focus on governance and the vital role of Parliament in the nation’s democracy, urging them to transcend partisan politics for the sake of national unity and progress.
