In a dramatic turn of events, Walewale Member of Parliament Dr. Kabiru Tiah Mahama has withdrawn his description of Speaker Alban Bagbin's decision to recall Parliament as "rude" and rendered an unreserved apology to the Speaker and the House. This move came after Speaker Bagbin raised the matter during Parliament's emergency sitting on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The incident highlights the ongoing debate about the tone and language used in Ghanaian politics.
According to Speaker Bagbin, his decision to recall the House was based on Order 58(4) of Parliament's Standing Orders, following a request from President John Dramani Mahama to consider specified urgent matters. He emphasized that MPs were free to question parliamentary decisions and challenge procedures they considered inappropriate. However, he cautioned that such disagreements should not diminish the authority of the institutions through which Ghana's democratic system operates.
The Speaker stressed the importance of maintaining decorum when expressing disagreements, urging political actors to avoid language that could be interpreted as insulting or disrespectful to public institutions and officeholders. He stated that while MPs have the right to disagree with his decisions, such criticism must be expressed in a manner that preserves the dignity of Parliament and the office of the Speaker.
Dr. Tiah Mahama admitted using the word "rude" during his press conference and claimed he had misunderstood its meaning. He stated that his dictionary defined the word as "sadly and unpleasantly," but he was wrong, and therefore, he withdrew the word unreservedly and apologized for saying it. The Walewale MP's apology was in response to the Speaker's directive to withdraw the "rude" description and apologize to both the House and the Speaker.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the tone and language used in Ghanaian politics. Speaker Bagbin's appeal for greater responsibility in political and public discourse has been echoed by many Ghanaians who are concerned about the increasing polarization and incivility in the country's politics. As Ghana continues to consolidate its democracy, the need for constructive and respectful dialogue has become increasingly important.
The relationship between the Speaker and MPs is critical to the effective functioning of Ghana's parliamentary democracy. Speaker Bagbin's leadership style has been characterized by his efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the House. His decision to recall Parliament and his subsequent handling of Dr. Tiah Mahama's comment demonstrate his commitment to upholding the dignity of the office of the Speaker and the institution of Parliament.
The apology by Dr. Tiah Mahama has been seen as a positive step towards healing and rebuilding relationships between the Speaker and MPs. As Ghana prepares for future elections and policy challenges, the ability of its leaders to engage in constructive and respectful dialogue will be crucial to addressing the country's development needs. Key to this will be the maintenance of a culture of respect and civility in public discourse.
Key points
- Dr. Kabiru Tiah Mahama, the Walewale MP, apologized to Speaker Alban Bagbin for describing his decision to recall Parliament as "rude".
- The Speaker emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum when expressing disagreements and avoiding language that could be interpreted as insulting or disrespectful to public institutions and officeholders.
- The incident highlights the ongoing debate about the tone and language used in Ghanaian politics.
