Features
The disgraceful chaos in parliament on January 7
In the village of Fankyeneko, there were rival factions that were bitterly opposed to each other. On one occasion, members of the factions were invited to a banquet. The bitterness existing between the two was such that members of the faction rushed to the “Ahenfie” or palace to occupy particular seats even though this was needless. They started attacking each other and nearly caused serious injuries to each other.
What happened on January 7, 2021, in parliament, comparable to this, was so disgraceful and embarrassing that many people could not believe their eyes as they saw Members of Parliament bringing their names into disrepute on the basis of what took place on that day.
Many students and young people raised question as to whether this is how our MPs behave in parliament since they found that behaviour unacceptable. So unacceptable was this that they condemned them and reduced the level of respect for our MPs who over the years have been performing creditably well for the people of this country and for the nation.
The whole situation arose because it looked as if the level of antagonism was so high that each side was prepared to jump at each others’ throat and crucify them to show which side was stronger and more diabolic when it comes to creating negative acts in this “holy” and “revered” place. Probably, they have all forgotten that as Members of Parliament they have to behave in a way to let the public know why they are referred to as honourable members.
Creation of awful scene
It was not one incident in parliament that created the awful scene that should not have been exposed to the public but a series of incidents and/or actions that culminated in casting a slur on parliamentarians on that day. It is known that parliamentarians everywhere tend to shout and exhibit emotion about issues that are dear to their hearts but what happened on that day was one out of the ordinary, creating an ugly scene in the early hours of that day.
Indeed, parliamentarians are also humans but seeing that they occupy special positions in society and command special respect from the public, it is important that they comport themselves in a manner that would portray them as honourable members of society. What happened on that day was a big shame in the lives of our parliamentarians.
Scoring political points
Each side from the NDC and the NPP tried to score some points by defending and justifying the action of its members in contributing to this shame or disgrace but no matter how they examined the issue or tried hard to justify it, no right-thinking Ghanaian would be prepared to accept it. In other words, it was simply a shameful act that should not be repeated in this country no matter what. It is believed that by now many of the parliamentarians, whether NPP or NDC, now regret what took place on that day and wish it had never taken place.
How did the whole chaotic situation begin?
It began when one group of parliamentarians, the NDC, resolved that they were bound to occupy the majority side in parliament and portray to the world that they were now a majority side when it comes to law making in the Ghanaian parliament. This came as no surprise since the NDC had already claimed that they had won more seats than the NPP.
Press conferences
Press conferences upon press conferences organised by the NDC told Ghanaians that they were far ahead of the NPP as far as winning majority of the seats were concerned and that they had even won the presidential election. This was, however, proved wrong in the light of collation by the Electoral Commission, the body mandated by law to announce election results in the country.
The position of the NDC has now changed in view of the petition they took to the Supreme Court. In the petition, the NDC pointed out that former President John Mahama won 46 per cent of the votes while Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo won a little above 49 per cent and for which reason they are asking the court to order the EC for a re-run of the presidential election this time between only the two presidential candidates of the NDC and the NPP.
Going to parliament early
Having initially believed that they had won majority of the seats though falsely, the NDC MPs were influenced to go to parliament very early on that day to occupy what was known to them as the Majority side of parliament. By the time their NPP counterparts had reported, they were already there and refused to vacate the seats for their brothers and sisters on the other side.
This nearly resulted in attacks from both sides but we are told that the NPP leadership prevailed upon their side to keep their cool but not engage in any physical brawl. This was heeded to and helped to calm down nerves and prevent what would have been a blood-shed for the first time in the history of the Ghanaian parliament. The NPP MPs had to sit on the other side of parliament usually reserved for the Minority. But this brought about peace so we all welcome it.
Second issue
The second issue that nearly marred the beauty of the day was the refusal of the NDC side to acknowledge or accept a court order restraining the then MP-elect for Assin North Constituency Mr. James Gyakye Quayson from holding himself as someone who had been elected a member of parliament since he was holding two citizenship, Canadian and Ghanaian, which was against the laws of this country. Since they were determined to add this MP to their votes, they encouraged him to sit and vote for the Speaker. The MP accepted it and became encouraged to sit in parliament and hold himself as a parliamentarian even though the injunction from the court at Cape Coast showed that he was not to have done so.
It became clear that the clerk in parliament at the time who acted for the Speaker was coerced into submission and so could not come out boldly to prevent the Assin North MP from voting. Some people say this was a good strategy by the NDC but to others it was a needless shameful act that could have resulted in an open brawl had the NPP side also resolved to prevent the Assin North MP from voting.
Third incident
The third incident that sparked off the chaotic situation in parliament revolved around some of the NDC MPs such as Muntaka Mubarak and Sam George who went around kicking the election booths and ballot boxes within parliament. This was unbelievable but it continued unabated since, here again, the NPP side tried as much as possible to restrain themselves. We thank God that the worse did not happen to put an indelible shame on the name of Ghana as a democratic country.
Final incident
The fourth and final incident was when Carlos Ahenkorah swiftly snatched some ballot papers and started running away. So swift was he that at a point in time some of us did not believe that it was ,indeed, Carlos Ahenkorah who was running away at that unbelievable speed. In fact, on that day, he was so fast that some people believed that he ran faster than the rabbit. It was on that day that many of us realised that he had enough energy to run a 100-metre race.
These incidents brought shame to parliament. Some people, from the NDC and the NPP side, have tried to justify each of the incidents that brought about this shameful act in parliament but it must be noted that none of them is justifiable. If this is the case then party supporters and communicators should refrain from any attempt to justify each of the actions in parliament, whether from the NDC or NPP side. They are all shameful and should not be supported by anyone.
Fair reporting
Similarly, the media must also be fair when reporting on such incidents so that only the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth will be reported for consumption by the people of this country. On Radio Ghana (GBC), for example, one Bobo Klinoko wrote a radio news commentary condemning the NPP side while at the same time trying to exonerate the NDC from any blame. This was unacceptable and the leadership of that network must sit up and do what is acceptable next time round.
Again, one Emmanuel Akorli of UTV also reported that they say Carlos Ahenkorah contacted somebody before embarking on his famous run ,therefore, he must have been encouraged by that person to do what he did. He kept saying that “Yese, yese” meaning “they say, they say,” Carlos contacted someone even though he could not ascertain for sure whether it was true or not. Such reportage should not be encouraged because they tell you straight away where the reporter is coming from.
Blunder
A few other journalists also followed suit and committed the same blunder even though this blunder was avoidable. Journalism, whether broadcast or print, is a noble profession and should ,therefore, be held as such and no attempt should be made by anyone to bring it into disrepute.
So far, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has exhibited fairness to both sides, the NPP and the NDC. It is hoped that this fairness will continuously be exhibited to all sides so that parliamentarians will work together in the interest of the nation but not to be too partisan since there are still numerous socio-economic challenges ahead of us.
By Dr. Kofi Amponsah-Bediako
In the pursuit of nurturing healthy, fulfilling relationships, we often focus on understanding our partners, communicating effectively, and navigating conflicts. However, a crucial element is frequently overlooked: self-awareness.
Understanding ourselves is the foundation upon which successful relationships are built. Imagine being in a relationship where every conversation feels like a minefield, and every disagreement leaves you wondering if you are truly understood.
Now, picture a relationship where you feel seen, heard, and valued—not because your partner has magically figured you out, but because you have taken the time to understand yourself. This is the transformative power of self-awareness in relationships.
What is Self-Awareness?
Self-awareness is the ability to recognize and understand our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is the capacity to reflect on ourselves, acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses, and taking responsibility for our actions. With self-awareness, we are better equipped to manage our emotions, respond to situations more thoughtfully, and make informed decisions that align with our values.
How Self-Awareness Impacts Relationships
- Improved Communication:
When we are aware of our own emotions and needs, we can communicate them more effectively to our partner, reducing misunderstandings and conflicts. By recognising our tendency to become defensive in certain situations, we can take a step back, breathe, and respond more constructively. - Increased Empathy:
Self-awareness allows us to recognise and manage our own biases, enabling us to be more empathetic and understanding towards our partner’s perspective. By acknowledging our own emotional triggers, we can respond to our partner’s needs with more compassion. - Healthier Boundaries:
By understanding our own needs and limits, we can establish and maintain healthy boundaries, preventing codependency and resentment. Self-awareness helps us communicate our boundaries clearly and respectfully, fostering mutual respect in relationships. - Personal Growth:
Self-awareness fosters personal growth, enabling us to work on our flaws and become a better partner, friend, and individual. As we develop self-awareness, we become more resilient, adaptable, and better equipped to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and purpose.
Cultivating Self-Awareness
- Mindfulness and Reflection:
Regular mindfulness practices and self-reflection can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Schedule time for reflection, whether through journaling, meditating, or simply taking a quiet walk in nature. - Journaling:
Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can provide valuable insights into your motivations and behaviors. Reflect on your journal entries to identify patterns, gain clarity, and develop a greater understanding of yourself. - Seek Feedback:
Ask trusted friends, family, or a therapist at Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC) for feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. - Embrace Imperfection:
Recognise that nobody is perfect, and it is okay to make mistakes. This mindset allows you to approach self-awareness with kindness and compassion, fostering a more positive and growth-oriented relationship with yourself.
As we cultivate self-awareness, we embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and transformation. By understanding ourselves, we can build stronger, more resilient relationships, and live a more authentic, meaningful life. Self-awareness is not a destination; it is a continuous process of learning, growing, and evolving—and one that requires patience, kindness, and compassion towards ourselves and others.
In conclusion, self-awareness is the cornerstone of healthy, fulfilling relationships. By understanding ourselves, we can communicate more effectively, empathise with our partner, and cultivate personal growth. As we strive to build stronger relationships, let us prioritise self-awareness, embracing our true selves, and loving ourselves for who we are. By doing so, we will become better partners, friends, and individuals—capable of building more profound, lasting connections with others, and living a life that truly reflects our values and aspirations.
To be continued …
By Counselor Prince Offei
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ONE profession which society has battled with is prostitution. Prostitutes can’t be stopped in their tracks. Soldiers have tried, policemen have doubled and redoubled to keep them off the streets. But the prostitute is like the cockroach. Sack it from the kitchen and it moves to the toilet where it can enjoy self-contained facilities. Drive it away from there and it scurries to the bedroom to become the landlord.
Prostitutes can live on land and sea. They are mysterious and defy gravity, a feat—even birds of the air have not successfully accomplished. They can change form and appear as bar girls; they dress like students; act like scholars and speak Oxford English. They are also like the chameleon but once their clients can identify them, no problem. The Sikaman prostitute normally enters the business as an amateur, having been introduced by a professional or a caricature of a pimp. But she learns quickly.
In a short time, she is able to take any size without wailing, unless of course the size is “international”.
Prostitutes are of every tribe, height, weight, colour and notoriety. These days, some are well-schooled with diplomas and degrees. They enter into the world’s oldest profession due to factors ranging from poverty to nymphomania.
Most prostitutes in Sikaman are often not sophisticated in outlook and modus operandi. Often, they easily betray themselves with their gaudy appearance, over-painted faces, skimpy skirts, cigarette in hand, walking with that kind of bottom-wriggling gait that can instantly turn a devoted clergyman into a he-goat.
In developed countries like Spain, prostitution takes different forms. Apart from those you can grab from the cheap bars and ghettos for single night stands and those managed by shameless pimps, there are some who are organised by well-established syndicates and specialised agencies.
If you need a girl for the night, you only have to telephone an agency, describing the kind and breed you want—race, height, size, colour (chocolate?), rudeness, smoking type, strip-teasing, shyness, whatever.
You give your address and the girl on time. You pay by the hour and cost per hour can make you feel dizzy without falling down. You’ll still be steady for the showdown.
The girls have been trained to use tricks and communication skills to make their clients spend several hours without really doing anything. A typical prostitute will make you drink, chat at length (they are very knowledgeable), cook for you, bathe you and breast-feed you. That takes some three hours and you have to pay if you still want her services.
If you grow a bit wiser and protest, and insist vehemently that you are tired of being babied and want some real action now, she’ll do another hour of strip-tease and belly-dance by which time you’re either bored or charged to bursting point.
And finally you will do it but never without a condom. And the kind of condom she’ll give you can’t be torn by any knife around the globe, not even okapi. Before you’re finally through, you’ve got some five-hour helluva bill to pay. Next time round, you’ll think twice and go in for the cheap-side who’ll even allow you to do it without condoms if you are tired of living and want to die of AIDS.
In Sikaman, apart from those who operate from hotels and bars, some operate in private homes. The clients come and line-up, each with a hard-on. When the queue is not moving fast some begin to sweat because they have a very low sexual boiling point. If they are not ushered in quickly they can cause problems.
They’ll start grunting and stamping and can disrupt the peaceful and orderly procedure. As it were, such clients need priority attention so that they do not cause a riot and disturb the public peace.
Incidentally, prostitutes don’t like dealing with such clients because they are bad business. They have no biblical patience at all. They rush too much, and that was why a prostitute once asked a client whether he was a Russian because he rushed a bit too much and messed up things.
Prostitution in Sikaman has taken a new turn. Girls as little as sixteen are selling their bodies sometimes with the passive connivance of their mothers. When the girls go out at 9.00 p.m. and return at 3.00 a.m, their mothers let them in without asking questions. Next day, the house is properly fed from the proceeds of the night adventure and everybody is happy and nobody talks. If you talk, no breakfast for you tomorrow morning.
The police are doing quite a job trying to get them off the streets but they go and return just like the cockroach. Many of them are surely agents for the transmission of the AIDS virus because they permit clients to forgo the condom. They only have to pay extra for the “raw” service.
Now, the idea of legalising prostitution has been a very controversial one. If prostitutes can hardly be gotten off the streets since they are defiant and are now very many, why not legalise the profession, issue licences (not to kids), offer them health services and health education, teach them how to protect themselves and others from sexually transmitted diseases and then compel them to pay tax?
That would force children out of the trade because the legal operators will themselves force out the kids who will be competing with them. They would even assist the police to kick out the 15 and 16 year olds.
If a bad phenomenon cannot be wiped out, a way must be found to make it less and less harmless, so that while it doesn’t benefit society in any grand way, it does not also harm it.
Any suggestions?
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