Chaos broke out in Ghana’s Parliament on January 30, 2025, during the vetting of Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health-designate. The turmoil came after the Appointments Committee decided to vet five nominees instead of the planned four. This included Foreign Affairs Minister-designate, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and Health Minister-designate, Kwabena Akandoh.

Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Member of Parliament for Nsawam Adoagyiri and Minority Chief Whip, explained that the committee had initially agreed on four nominees. However, the last-minute addition of two nominees caused significant tension. The Majority and Minority sides clashed, leading to a chaotic scene. The Minority side overturned the vetting table and damaged microphones and other materials.

During the altercation, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, MP for South Dayi, was seen in a heated argument with a colleague. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accused the Clerk of Parliament of being partisan and acting in favor of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He claimed the Clerk had created confusion during the vetting process.

Afenyo-Markin also criticized the NDC’s intimidation tactics and expressed frustration with the way the proceedings were handled. He said, “We have cooperated, but the constant bullying needs to stop.”

In response to the destruction of property, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga moved the vetting to the Speaker’s Conference Room. He explained that the previous room could no longer accommodate the proceedings, and the new venue lacked space for guests. Ayariga stressed that the intense questioning of nominees had led to heightened emotions. He urged MPs to adopt a more moderate approach moving forward.

The vetting was adjourned to the next day at 9:00 AM. Due to space constraints in the new venue, no guests were allowed.

The events have sparked concerns about the conduct of MPs and the professionalism of Parliament. The situation remains a hot topic in Ghana’s political landscape.