The Chairman of Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, has issued a formal apology to the public and the Speaker of Parliament following chaotic scenes during the vetting of two ministerial nominees on Thursday night.
Tensions ran high on January 30, 2025, as members of the Majority and Minority caucuses engaged in heated clashes during the vetting of Health Minister-designate Kwabena Mintah Akandoh and Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
The altercation disrupted proceedings and reportedly resulted in damage to parliamentary furniture, prompting widespread criticism from the public.
The incident drew condemnation from many Ghanaians who expressed disappointment over the conduct of MPs entrusted with the duty of upholding parliamentary decorum and the rule of law.
Before the committee resumed its vetting session on Friday, January 31, Bernard Ahiafor, in his opening remarks, expressed regret over the events and pledged to foster a more constructive approach moving forward.
“What happened last night is totally unacceptable,” Mr. Ahiafor stated. “The committee wants to render an unreserved apology to the Speaker and the general public. We are deeply committed to improving our conduct and working collectively to strengthen our democracy.”
Mr. Ahiafor’s apology signals a commitment by the Appointments Committee to restore public confidence and ensure the smooth functioning of parliamentary procedures amidst growing scrutiny of the country’s democratic processes.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
