Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has appealed to Members of Parliament to promote peace and avoid inciting violence as the Akwatia by-election approaches.
Addressing the House after the swearing-in of the new Ablekuma North MP, Bagbin emphasized the importance of civility in both parliamentary proceedings and electoral processes.
He expressed concern over what he described as a growing culture of hostility, not just in campaign activities, but also in the language and tone used during debates in Parliament.
“Let’s completely eliminate violence from our political and parliamentary lives,” Bagbin urged. “Even the way we talk in this chamber has become aggressive and confrontational—this is not how Parliament used to operate.”
He encouraged MPs to act with decorum and unity, reminding them of their role as moral leaders and public examples. “I’m appealing to your hearts—let’s tone it down and work together,” he added.
Reflecting on the tension-filled Ablekuma North rerun, Bagbin expressed hope that the Akwatia by-election will be conducted more peacefully. “What God has ordained will happen, so let’s ensure the next by-election is free from hostility,” he said.