By Emmanuel Amoah
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has firmly reprimanded Members of Parliament (MPs) for their behavior, which he likened to that of kindergarten children. His stern remarks were prompted by concerns raised by some MPs regarding the disrespect they face from certain segments of the public.
“Some of you have complained to me that you meet some of these security personnel and other officials and when you say ‘I am a member of Parliament’, the response you get is ‘and so what?'” Bagbin stated.
“I believe this problem stems from how we conduct ourselves. Would they ever say ‘and so what?’ to a judge or a minister? Why is it that they feel comfortable saying this to Members of Parliament? We need to address this issue first,” he added.
Bagbin called on MPs to reflect on their behavior and conduct themselves in a manner that commands respect. He emphasized that the public’s perception of MPs is far from flattering, and it is up to the MPs to change this narrative.
The Speaker’s comments underscore a public view of MPs as immature and unprofessional. He urges them to take responsibility for their actions and behave in a way that earns them the respect their positions deserve.
The 8th Parliament of Ghana has been marked by several scuffles and confrontations among members, often stemming from disagreements over legislative procedures and political tensions between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Notable incidents include physical confrontations during the election of the Speaker of Parliament and heated exchanges during the debate and approval of the 2022 budget.
Bagbin’s stern warning serves as a wake-up call to MPs to be mindful of their behavior and conduct themselves with the dignity and respect their positions demand.
By speaking out against the unbecoming behavior of MPs, Bagbin is sending a strong message: it’s time for them to shape up and earn the respect of the public.
