In a candid interview, Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, shared his growing disillusionment with the current state of affairs in Parliament. The increasing disorderly conduct among lawmakers has led him to contemplate resigning from his position.
Speaking on A1 Radio in Bolgatanga, Dr. Ayine vividly described the chaotic atmosphere within the parliamentary chamber, where instances of MPs banging on tables and shouting insults have become commonplace. He characterized these disruptions as not only embarrassing but also detrimental to effective governance.
“There are moments when I seriously consider stepping down because of how bad things have gotten,” Dr. Ayine remarked. “The noise, the catcalls—it’s uncomfortable and unacceptable. Such behavior undermines our responsibilities as representatives of the people.”
The Attorney General stressed the importance of maintaining decorum in legislative discussions, advocating for civil discourse as a vital element of a functioning democracy. He argued that constructive debate and rational argumentation are essential for resolving conflicts and progressing legislative initiatives.
Dr. Ayine warned that the ongoing unruliness could diminish public trust in the parliamentary system and weaken the pillars of democracy in Ghana. He urged his colleagues in Parliament to reconsider their approach, suggesting that they should focus on dialogue and persuasion instead of engaging in disruptive antics.
“If my fellow members are listening, I implore them to cease this behavior. We must find ways to settle our differences through reasoned debate rather than through chaos,” he added. His comments serve as a critical reminder of the need for professionalism and respect in the legislative process as tensions continue to rise within the parliamentary ranks.
