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Hold MPs Accountable for Vetting Chaos, Not the State – Dr. Osae-Kwapong

Accra, Ghana – February 1, 2025 – Governance expert and CDD-Ghana Fellow, Dr. John Osae-Kwapong, has called for personal accountability for the damages caused during Thursday’s chaotic vetting session in Parliament.

Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show, Dr. Osae-Kwapong insisted that the state must not bear the cost of the destruction caused when furniture and microphones were damaged during heated clashes between Majority and Minority MPs.

Those responsible for the chaos must pay for the damage, not the state,” he stated. “This will send a strong message and act as a deterrent to prevent such behaviour in the future.”

Background of the Incident

The disruption occurred after a disagreement over the vetting schedule of ministerial nominees. The Majority insisted on continuing proceedings beyond 10 pm, while the Minority opposed it, claiming the session should have ended earlier. The standoff escalated into physical altercations, forcing an abrupt suspension of the session.

Speaker’s Action and Call for Further Consequences

Following the incident, Speaker Alban Bagbin suspended four MPs:

  • Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor (South Dayi)
  • Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri)
  • Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli (Gushegu)
  • Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe)

However, Dr. Osae-Kwapong believes that further action is needed. He urged the Speaker to directly summon the involved MPs for a stern discussion and ensure they personally cover the damages.

“This should not be a case where taxpayers foot the bill for disorderly conduct,” he stressed.

A seven-member committee led by Emmanuel Bedzrah (Ho West) has been tasked with investigating the incident and recommending appropriate measures to prevent future occurrences.

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