I firmly believe that Ghana’s Parliament must rise above partisan politics if it is to serve the nation effectively. Currently, party loyalty often overshadows the public interest, and the whip system restricts Members of Parliament from debating or voting according to reason and conscience.
As Parliament prepares to resume sitting on October 14, 2025, this moment presents an opportunity to evaluate whether our current system genuinely represents the people or merely entrenches party control.
In my view, strict partisanship consistently undermines Ghana’s legislative process. Although it ensures party unity and coherent policy direction, it often comes at the expense of national welfare.
Consequently, critical issues such as the energy crisis, unpaid arrears to teachers and contractors, illegal mining, and infrastructure deficits are debated less on their merits and more through a political lens. As a result, Parliament is frequently perceived as a forum for partisan rivalry rather than problem-solving, which diminishes public trust in democratic institutions.
Furthermore, the whip system prevents MPs from prioritizing the national interest. I believe that allowing independent debate would foster innovation, improve accountability, and enable Parliament to respond effectively to urgent challenges. In addition, a less partisan approach would demonstrate to citizens that their representatives act in the nation’s interest rather than for party advantage, thereby restoring confidence in the institution.
Therefore, I assert that several reforms are urgently needed to achieve a Parliament beyond partisanship. First, constitutional safeguards should protect MPs who vote or debate against party directives on matters of national importance.
This reform would ensure that the whip system does not stifle honest and solution-driven discussion. Moreover, I advocate for strengthened bipartisan committees to address critical sectors such as education, healthcare, energy, and economic policy. By fostering collaboration across party lines, Parliament can produce practical legislation instead of politically motivated compromises.
Additionally, the upcoming constitutional review presents an opportunity to enshrine these reforms in law, further empowering MPs to act independently and responsibly.
While some may argue that a less partisan Parliament could lead to inconsistencies or slower decision-making, I contend that the benefits far outweigh the risks. Independent MPs would prioritize merit over politics, enhance collaboration, and deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
Conversely, a Parliament dominated by strict party lines may ensure predictability for parties, but it frequently sacrifices the public interest and stifles innovation in policymaking.
Therefore, the sitting on October 14 represents more than a routine parliamentary event; it is a test of whether Parliament can rise above politics and serve the people.
Ghana needs a Parliament that allows MPs to debate freely, act independently, and prioritize national concerns over party loyalty. By embracing this approach, Parliament can restore trust, improve governance, and ensure that legislative action benefits all citizens. Ultimately, the time for excuses is over, and the nation expects decisive action from its representatives.
Source:nCurtice Dumevor, Public Health Expert and Social Analyst