The various statements, funny moments, and memorable events in Ghana’s 8th Parliament (Video)

The 8th Parliament stands dissolved by close of day January 6, 2025. The video below shows some of the dramatic moments, contentious debates, and groundbreaking decisions.

It was a Parliament that witnessed a unique “hung” equal representation from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), 137 seats each and one independent.

Iconic Statements

• Speaker Alban Bagbin’s independence declaration:

“Parliament is not a rubber stamp for the Executive. We are here to serve the people, not any political party.” 

This statement, made during a heated debate, underscored Bagbin’s resolve to maintain parliamentary independence.

• Haruna Iddrisu on the E-Levy:

“This E-Levy is a killer tax. It will impoverish Ghanaians further.”

The Minority Leader’s passionate critique became a rallying cry for opposition to the controversial tax policy.

• Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu on budget rejection

“A budget is not rejected in isolation. It’s negotiated, debated, and passed for the good of all Ghanaians.”

The Majority Leader’s response to the Minority’s rejection of the 2022 budget was widely discussed.

• Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on ministerial oversight

“Parliament must not be a clearinghouse for incompetence. We owe it to the people to scrutinise every nominee"

”This statement came during the vetting of ministerial appointees and highlighted Parliament’s oversight role.

• Muntaka Mubarak on voting disputes

“If the Speaker’s chair becomes a battleground, then democracy is under threat.”

His comment during the controversial election of the Speaker resonated with calls for decorum.

Funny moments

• “Honorable Members, Please Behave!”

Speaker Bagbin repeatedly appealed for calm during chaotic sessions, often with exasperation, becoming a running joke among Ghanaians watching proceedings.

• “Sika Mpɛ Dede” in Parliament

MPs humorously referenced President Akufo-Addo’s popular statement “Sika mpɛ dede” (“Money dislikes noise”) during debates about the economy, drawing laughter across the aisle.

• MPs fighting over the Speaker’s chair

The dramatic scene during the Speaker election, where MPs physically struggled over the ballot box, became one of the most talked-about moments and inspired countless memes.

• “Bread-and-butter politics”

An MP jokingly referred to debates as “bread-and-butter politics” during a discussion on the cost of living, sparking laughter even in a tense session.

• The "Cash for Votes" incident

During the Speaker election, MPs laughingly accused one another of “inducing votes” with food and money, adding humor to an otherwise intense process.

• Physical altercations

A brawl broke out during the E-Levy vote, with some MPs exchanging blows. The footage went viral and was widely criticized.

• Walkouts and boycotts

The Minority staged several walkouts, including one during the approval of ministerial nominees, citing dissatisfaction with government policies.

Tribute to Jerry John Rawlings

Parliament paid a heartfelt tribute to Ghana’s late former President, showcasing a rare moment of unity.