Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has declined to refer Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie, the Effiduase-Asokore MP, to the Privileges Committee. This follows yesterday’s clash over the refusal to hear an urgent statement on the ongoing nurses’ strike. The decision comes amid escalating tensions between the Minority and the First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor, whose handling of the issue sparked a near-physical confrontation in the House.
The uproar erupted on June 10 when the Ranking Member on the Health Committee, Dr. Afriyie, sought to address the strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), which has paralyzed healthcare services since June 4.
Addressing the House today, Bagbin acknowledged the gravity of the nurses’ strike but rebuked Dr. Ayew Afriyie for bypassing leadership channels. According to him, urgent statements must follow due process, adding that the title ‘Honourable’ is not decorative and demands respect for the chair and the institution. He stopped short of disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has assured the Speaker of full cooperation from his side of the aisle.
BRIEF:
Speaker Alban Bagbin has been taking a firm stance on discipline within the House, ensuring that MPs adhere to the rules and procedures. In recent weeks, he has been cracking down on unruly behavior, warning MPs to refrain from engaging in unparliamentary conduct.
The Speaker’s disciplinary measures have been met with mixed reactions from MPs, with some praising his efforts to maintain order and others criticizing him for being too harsh. However, Bagbin remains resolute in his commitment to upholding the dignity and integrity of the Bagbin.
Under Bagbin’s leadership, the Parliament has seen a significant reduction in disruptions and unruly behavior. MPs are now more mindful of their actions and words, knowing that the Speaker will not hesitate to take action if they step out of line.
The Speaker’s firm hand has also led to improved decorum in the House, with MPs engaging in more respectful and constructive debates. This has enhanced the institution’s reputation and earned it more respect from the public.
Bagbin’s approach to discipline has been seen as a breath of fresh air by many Ghanaians, who are tired of the antics of some MPs. His leadership style has set a high standard for the House, and it is expected that future parliaments will build on the foundation he has laid.
