The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Chair of the Appointments Committee, Bernard Ahiafor, has offered insights into the events that led to the actions of the Minority during the turbulent ministerial vetting session.

Testifying before the committee probing the disturbances on February 5, Mr Ahiafor acknowledged that frustrations within the Minority played a key role in the disruptions, ultimately affecting the vetting process.

He emphasized that while efforts were made to secure agreements with the Minority, some of these understandings were later disregarded, further fueling tensions in the House.

Ahiafor’s remarks come at a time when discussions are ongoing about potential reforms to improve the vetting process and enhance collaboration between the Majority and Minority caucuses.

“I must say that sometimes I see frustration on the part of the minority. Because sometimes there was some external pressure on them and that has resulted in them doing certain things, which ordinarily should not happen.”

The disorder on January 30, 2025, erupted when the Minority strongly objected to the vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Kwabena Mintah Akandoh. The situation quickly spiraled into a heated confrontation, leading to the destruction of parliamentary furniture and equipment.

Following the incident, four MPs were suspended, prompting the Minority to stage a walkout, which allowed the Majority to proceed with the vetting of Ablakwa and other nominees on January 31.

Notably, the standoff unfolded after Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin had already subjected Ablakwa to rigorous questioning.