Ghana’s political landscape continues to be fraught with controversy following chaotic scenes during the vetting process of ministerial nominees by the Appointments Committee of Parliament. One of the most talked-about incidents revolves around allegations that NDC MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor was physically assaulted during the heated session. However, MP for Akyem Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has dismissed the claims, insisting that if Dafeamekpor himself denies being harmed, then the matter should be laid to rest.
The controversy stems from reports that Dafeamekpor, who represents South Dayi on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was allegedly manhandled, with claims that his “balls” were squeezed during the scuffle. This claim sparked public outcry and intensified partisan debates on the conduct of MPs within the parliamentary chamber. However, speaking in an interview, Akwasi Acquah dismissed the allegations, saying, “If majority Rockson Nelson-Dafeamekpor says his ‘balls’ were not squeezed during the Appointments Committee chaos, so be it.”
His comments have further fueled discussions about the level of decorum in Ghana’s legislature, as many believe the vetting process should be a forum for serious national discourse rather than a battleground for physical altercations. Critics argue that the chaos witnessed during the proceedings undermines the integrity of the vetting process, which is meant to ensure that ministerial nominees meet the required standards before assuming office.
Meanwhile, Dafeamekpor has not publicly detailed any assault claims himself, though videos circulating on social media depict moments of tension during the committee’s deliberations. The opposition NDC has expressed concerns about what they perceive as increasing levels of aggression and disorder in parliamentary affairs.
This latest episode comes at a time when Ghana’s Parliament is experiencing deep partisan divisions, with both the Majority and Minority caucuses frequently at odds over governance issues. Many political analysts have suggested that rather than engaging in physical confrontations, MPs should focus on addressing the pressing issues affecting Ghanaians, including economic hardships, infrastructural development, and job creation.
The incident has once again put the spotlight on the need for Parliament to uphold professionalism and ensure that debates, no matter how intense, do not degenerate into chaos. As the dust settles, the public awaits further clarification from all parties involved, hoping for a return to constructive dialogue in Ghana’s legislative process.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0