OneGhana Movement tells A-G to initiate criminal actions against persons culpable in the destruction

Chaos in Parliament: OneGhana Movement tells A-G to initiate criminal actions against persons culpable in the destruction

The One Ghana Movement has strongly condemned the “unacceptable” conduct of members of the vetting committee of Ghana’s 9th Parliament following the chaos that erupted on Thursday, January 30.

One Ghana Movement said that the acts of vandalism and destruction of public property were undignified and a blatant affront to the nation’s democratic values.

In a statement issued by its Director Senyo Hosi, the Movement explained that ministerial vetting, as enshrined in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, is a crucial process designed to ensure that nominees for public office possess the necessary competence, integrity, and experience to serve in the public interest. This process fosters transparency, safeguards national interests, upholds the principle of checks and balances, and strengthens public confidence in governance. However, the events of Thursday, January 30, 2025, led by the Minority, failed to reflect these ideals.

“The conduct of certain committee members not only tarnished Ghana’s democratic image but also eroded public trust in state institutions. Such reckless actions represent a waste of national resources and a disregard for the very citizens who entrusted these officials with power.

“The One Ghana Movement urges the Speaker of Parliament, Leadership of Parliament and the Chairman of the Vetting Committee to take decisive action in upholding order and discipline during this critical national exercise. We further call on the Attorney-General to investigate and initiate criminal actions against any person culpable in the destruction of state property as witnessed yesterday without fear nor favour.

“As a thought leadership and social action organization committed to promoting responsible citizenship, we call on all parliamentarians to demonstrate the highest standards of leadership, accountability, and respect for the people they serve.”

Chaos erupted during Parliament’s appointments committee sitting on Thursday, January 30.

During proceedings, the Minority and Majority members clashed over the timing of the vetting process.

However, the Majority MPs, resisted and insisted that the process continue tonight, leading to further tension in the chamber.

The Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin told the media that “The nominees—where we have to ask them questions, we do. Nothing will stop us from asking the necessary questions. It’s not every nominee; some of their nominees spent five minutes. NDC is always up to intimidating people. They think that they must always bully.”

He further alleged that the Clerk had unilaterally advertised the vetting schedule without prior agreement.

“The Clerk to the Committee is a partisan clerk. She’s a typical NDC member, she agrees with them, and she advertises and informs people to come. On January 29, there was no agreement, no meeting, but at 10:00 pm, she advertised,” he said.