Open letter: Chairperson, Parliamentary Committee on Local Government, Rural Development
I write with deep concern and profound disappointment over the manner in which your Committee conducted the appearance of the Navrongo Municipal Chief Executive, Madam Faustina Abulu, during her recent session before you.
What was transpired was less a fair engagement of public accountability and more a re-enactment of the Spanish Inquisition — a spectacle where no answer was safe, no explanation sufficient, and no dignity preserved.
The tone and texture of the proceedings suggested an ambush rather than a hearing. It was painfully evident that Madam Abulu was not accorded the respect and evenhandedness that a public servant deserves, much less a woman who has dedicated her time and energy to the service of her municipality.
Even more regrettably, your own posture, Chairperson, came across as condescending and uncharitable.
One would have expected that, as a fellow woman in leadership, you would have extended empathy and decorum, particularly when addressing a colleague who must daily contend with the burdens of both public expectation and gendered scrutiny.
Instead, what was on display appeared to diminish, rather than dignify, the very spirit of female leadership your presence in Parliament ought to represent.
Public accountability need not be devoid of civility.
Robust oversight is no excuse for public humiliation.
Our democracy thrives when its institutions temper firmness with fairness, and scrutiny with respect.
In the midst of that ordeal, however, Madam Faustina Abulu distinguished herself with rare composure and grace.
She remained calm, measured and respectful — even when the circumstances could easily have provoked defensiveness or indignation.
For that, she deserves commendation.
She emerged from that encounter not diminished, but ennobled.
It is my hope, Chairperson, that future engagements under your leadership will be marked by greater restraint, fairness, and the courtesy befitting the House of Parliament.
Accountability loses its moral force when it slips into derision.
Kasise Ricky Peprah,
Sirigu,
Kassena Nankana West District.
