Former Railway Minister and Former MP for Essikado-Ketan, Joe Ghartey, has finally opened up about his exclusion from the Former President Akufo-Addo’s second term, the chaos plaguing Parliament, and whether he will once again vie for the presidency.
In an interview on Focus on ABC with Joshua N.K Ayira on Thursday, February 6, Ghartey admitted that his exclusion from the ministerial appointment was a direct consequence of contesting the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries.
When asked if he would consider running for president again, Ghartey was cryptic but suggestive.
“When the horn blows, then we will see the passengers who will climb the train,” he said, refusing to give a definitive answer but hinting that the future could hold surprises.
Ghartey previously contested in the 2016 NPP flagbearership race but lost to Akufo-Addo, who went on to win two presidential terms.
His remarks leave political analysts wondering if he is gearing up for another bid.
“Parliament is Not a Boxing Ring” – Ghartey Condemns Chaos in the House
Commenting on the increasing tension and scuffles in Parliament, Ghartey issued a strong warning to MPs, calling for discipline and decorum.
“The chaos is regrettable; Parliament is not a boxing ring,” he stated, urging legislators to exercise caution in their utterances and actions.
Drawing from his personal experiences, he cautioned against reckless behavior:
“I have lived under military rule, and I will say what we have now is ten times better.”
He stressed the importance of protecting Ghana’s democracy, warning that instability in Parliament could erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
Afenyo-Markin and Advice to Young MPs
Asked about his thoughts on Deputy Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Ghartey had high praise for his colleague, saying: “I think he is doing well. He is tough, and I wish him well.”
However, he advised all MPs, particularly the younger ones, to be circumspect with their utterances, stressing that inflammatory rhetoric only fuels division and chaos.
What’s Next for Joe Ghartey?
Having served five terms in Parliament and as a former Attorney General and Minister of Railways, Joe Ghartey remains an influential figure in Ghanaian politics.
Will Joe Ghartey challenge for the presidency again? Only time—and the “blowing horn”—will tell.
Ruth Sekyi – ABC News GH
