“Parliament Must Prioritize Ghana Over Partisan Power Plays” – Lawyer Nketia
Lawyer Kwabena Nketia Antwi has shared his perspective on the conduct of Ghana’s hung parliament, expressing disappointment over what he views as the speaker’s misuse of power.
Speaking on the Amansie Ntie show with Kwabena Owusu Dankwah on Saturday, November 9th, Nketia highlighted the need for parliament to prioritize the interests of Ghanaians over partisan agendas.
“Every nation that believes in democracy has a parliament,” He noted that, he had expected more balanced decision-making with Ghana’s current 137-137 split between the two main parties.
However, he expressed frustration, saying, “Since the Speaker belongs to the minority party, the NDC, he has used his position to favour his party, pushing the other side into an unfavourable light. It’s become a show of power rather than focusing on Ghana’s needs.”
Nketia argued that this power struggle is hurting Ghanaians, with politicians more focused on party loyalty than the people’s welfare. He referenced Article 112(3) of the Ghanaian Constitution, which allows not only the Speaker but also 15% of parliament members to call for action. He questioned why the Speaker now claims uncertainty about which party holds the majority, despite clear seating arrangements.
The lawyer pointed out that parliament’s role is grounded in constitutional mandates, with standing orders guiding its work. “Parliament began with conflict and seems to be ending the same way,” Nketia remarked. “Are they working for Ghana, for themselves, or just for their party?”
Highlighting the privileges MPs enjoy, Nketia added, “If you’re truly there for Ghanaians, there are certain things you just wouldn’t do. MPs are paid whether they work or not, and they receive ex gratia at the end of their terms.”
He called for leaders who prioritize the nation’s welfare over political affiliation, warning that partisan politics is fracturing the country.
He urged all MPs to take their rightful seats to clarify the majority-minority divide, which the Supreme Court has addressed. He stated, “If it were up to me, he’d have advised the NPP to attend parliament, engage with the Speaker, and if he acted against the Supreme Court’s ruling, hold him accountable for contempt,”. He explained that under Article 24, any branch opposing the Supreme Court could face consequences.
In closing, Nketia appealed for parliament to demonstrate a genuine love for Ghana, with leaders who uphold integrity and use their power to unify rather than divide. “Parliament must show they’re here for Ghana’s best interests. The Speaker has the authority to settle this through the standing orders, and we need leaders with moral standards who won’t use parliament for personal gain.”
Story by: Joyce Owusu Dankwah
