Speaker reminds MPs that the dignity of parliament depends on respect for its decisions
The Speaker of Parliament has issued a strong reminder to Members of Parliament, stressing that the dignity and authority of the legislative body can only be maintained when every member commits to respecting its decisions. His remarks followed growing concerns among parliamentary observers regarding instances where MPs appear to disregard certain rulings, especially during heated political moments.
According to the Speaker, Parliament functions as the heart of Ghana’s democratic governance structure. It is where laws are debated, national priorities are shaped, and the people’s interests are represented. He noted that its effectiveness depends heavily on collective discipline and the willingness of members to adhere to outcomes that may not always align with their personal or party preferences. In his view, respect for decisions is not only a matter of procedure but a matter of national integrity.
He further pointed out that selective obedience weakens the sanctity of the House. When MPs choose which rulings to accept and which ones to undermine, it creates a culture of disorder that threatens the stability of the legislative process. The Speaker emphasized that Parliament operates on established rules and traditional practices designed to ensure fairness. These rules become meaningless if members ignore them whenever they are dissatisfied.
He encouraged MPs to rise above individual or partisan motivations and place national interest first. He explained that democracy thrives when elected representatives demonstrate maturity, restraint, and cooperation even in situations where disagreements run deep. He also noted that the public pays close attention to how MPs conduct themselves. Acts of noncompliance or open defiance reflect poorly on the entire institution and erode public trust.
The Speaker highlighted that divisions within Parliament slow progress on important matters such as economic reforms, social policy, and oversight. When lawmakers allow conflicts to overshadow collaboration, the nation suffers delays in solutions that citizens urgently need. He reminded MPs that they are expected to work together to solve problems affecting millions of Ghanaians.
He concluded by stating that Parliament can only fulfill its constitutional mandate when members support its collective authority. He called for renewed commitment to respectful debate, adherence to rulings, and cooperation across political lines. This, he said, is the only path to preserving the dignity and influence of Parliament in Ghana’s democracy.
