Joe Ghartey calls on MPs to embrace tolerance and respect in parliamentary engagements

Former Railway Minister and Former Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan, Joe Ghartey, has called on parliamentarians to exercise tolerance and accommodation in their engagements.

Speaking on Focus on ABC News on Thursday, February 6, Ghartey reflected on Ghana’s political evolution, stressing that democracy, despite its flaws, is far better than military rule.

“I have lived under military rule, and I will say what we have now is 10 times better,” he remarked, urging lawmakers to safeguard democratic values.

Addressing the recent chaotic scenes in Parliament, Ghartey expressed deep regret over the increasing lack of decorum among MPs. He cautioned against turning Parliament into a battleground, stating, “The chaos is regrettable; Parliament is not a boxing ring.”

While assessing the 9th Parliament against its revised standing orders, he urged MPs to conduct themselves with discipline and maturity.

He further advised that lawmakers be circumspect with their utterances, emphasizing that reckless comments could erode public trust in Parliament.

Despite his concerns, Ghartey commended Deputy Majority Leader Afenyo-Markin, describing him as “tough” and wishing him well in his leadership.

“I think he is doing well. He is tough, and I wish him well,” he remarked.

Having been in politics for over two decades, Ghartey’s reflections serve as a stark reminder that governance demands discipline, patience, and commitment to national unity.