Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has vowed to take decisive steps to restore discipline and decorum in Parliament following heated exchanges that marred the vetting of Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie.
The session on Monday, November 10, degenerated into chaos after a clash between the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga.
Tensions flared when Mr. Ayariga objected to Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s attempt to deliver opening remarks, arguing that the issue had already been addressed through a motion previously filed in Parliament. Matters worsened when the Minority Leader referred to Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as a “disputed Chief Justice nominee,” a remark that drew sharp protest from Mr. Ayariga, who demanded a retraction and apology.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin refused, accusing the Majority Leader of bad faith and attempting to suppress the Minority’s views. He further criticised the process that led to the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, describing it as opaque—another point that deepened the row between both sides.
Addressing MPs on Tuesday, November 11, Mr. Bagbin expressed disappointment over the conduct of some members, saying their behaviour fell short of parliamentary standards.
“I will come back on this issue of decency, discipline, and decorum — and this time, I am coming with the hammer, not the gavel,” the Speaker warned.
He reminded legislators that the Standing Orders of Parliament prohibit the use of offensive language and the attribution of improper motives, stressing the need for civility and respect in all proceedings.
“The Standing Orders serve as a reminder that our proceedings must always reflect the dignity and integrity of Parliament as a key organ of state,” he said.
Mr. Bagbin also reaffirmed Parliament’s respect for the judiciary as a coequal arm of government under Article 125(1) of the 1992 Constitution. He emphasised the importance of mutual respect among the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary to uphold the doctrine of separation of powers.
The Speaker disclosed that he had instructed the leadership of the Appointments Committee to ensure that future vetting sessions are conducted with the utmost civility and institutional respect.
“Parliament cherishes the longstanding cooperation and mutual regard between our institutions. We must remain committed to strengthening that relationship in the collective service of the people of Ghana and our constitutional democracy,” he added.
Mr. Bagbin also extended Parliament’s apologies to the judiciary for the recent tensions, assuring that the legislature remains dedicated to fostering harmony among the branches of government.
