Appointment committee chairman - Ahiafor
The recent turmoil in Ghana’s Parliament has captured significant public attention, particularly following a cryptic message shared by Bernard Ahiafor, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Appointments Committee. As tensions rose over the vetting of President John Dramani Mahama’s ministerial nominees, Ahiafor’s post ignited discussions across social media platforms.
The chaos in Parliament has been marked by disagreements between the Majority and Minority factions, especially during the vetting process. These disputes have escalated into physical confrontations, leading to damaged property and heightened frustrations among lawmakers. On January 31, 2025, a heated exchange occurred between Ahiafor and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin regarding a directive from the Speaker of Parliament.
In the midst of this chaos, Ahiafor took to social media to post a cryptic message: “Give a man a long rope, and he will hang himself.” This statement quickly garnered attention, sparking over 430 comments as users sought to decode its meaning. Many interpreted it as a cautionary remark about the dangers of granting too much freedom or power to individuals who may misuse it.
Some users expressed concerns about the implications of this message, warning that allowing too much leeway could lead to irreversible damage before any action is taken. Others humorously suggested that the “rope” should have been shorter, implying that tighter control is necessary to prevent further chaos.
The underlying message resonated with many who feel that the current political climate requires accountability and discipline. One user pointed out that the proverb serves as a reminder that excessive freedom can lead to mistakes and ultimately, downfall. This sentiment reflects a broader concern about maintaining order and respect within the parliamentary process.
The context of Ahiafor’s message is crucial. The recent turmoil included a dispute over the committee’s quorum and the legitimacy of the vetting process after the Speaker decided to reconstitute the committee. Afenyo-Markin raised alarms about the implications of this decision, insisting that until clarity was provided, the vetting should be suspended.
Despite these tensions, Ahiafor stood firm in his position, suggesting that any Minority MPs who disagreed with the directive were free to leave the session. This remark did not sit well with Afenyo-Markin, who demanded a retraction, highlighting the ongoing friction between the two sides.
As the situation continues to unfold, the public is keenly watching how these events will affect governance in Ghana. Ahiafor’s cryptic message has not only set social media ablaze but also reflected the urgent need for dialogue and cooperation among lawmakers.
Check some social media posts below:
