The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed shock and dismay over the chaotic scenes that unfolded during the Appointments Committee’s sittings on Thursday, January 30.

According to him, what should have been a solemn exercise in parliamentary scrutiny degenerated into an appalling display of chaos and lawlessness, bringing Parliament into disrepute before the entire world.

His remarks follow the disorder that erupted during the vetting of ministerial nominees, which disrupted the committee’s proceedings.

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During the altercation, tables and microphones were broken, and some Members of Parliament (MPs) nearly came to blows.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Friday, January 31, Speaker Bagbin stated that what transpired was not just a gross affront to the dignity of Parliament but also a blatant act of contempt against the House.

He warned that such behaviour is utterly unacceptable and a direct attack on the honour of the legislature.

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"The actions of those involved have sullied the image of Parliament and betrayed the trust of the Ghanaian people, whose expectations of leadership, decorum, and responsible conduct have been callously disregarded," he said.

The Speaker emphasised that Parliament is expected to uphold democracy, good governance, integrity, and public service.

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However, he lamented that the chaos during the Appointments Committee hearing had gravely undermined these ideals.

“These incidents represent a new low in parliamentary conduct and are particularly egregious given their timing and recurrence.

"It is unconscionable that Members, elected to serve as representatives of the people, would engage in violent confrontations in a setting that demands the highest levels of maturity, emotional intelligence, and statesmanship,” he said.