In recent years, Ghana has seen a notable increase in political activism among its Members of Parliament (MPs), with several taking to the streets to lead public demonstrations beyond their legislative duties.
This trend illustrates a growing trend among lawmakers to engage directly with their constituents and address urgent local and national issues through public protests.
Abla Dzifa Gomashie
The MP for Ketu South, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, spearheaded a demonstration in August 2021 to protest the closure of land borders in her constituency, which had been severely impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. Her aim was to pressure the government to reopen these borders.
Mahama Ayariga
The MP for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has long been involved in organizing protests over economic and financial policies. Recently, on October 3, 2023, he led a march against the Bank of Ghana’s policies, demanding greater transparency and accountability.
The protesters, who gathered at Obra Spot in Circle, marched to the Bank of Ghana’s offices to present a petition for the removal of Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.
However, the leadership of the Minority was met by the Head of Security at the Bank, Kwesi Asare-Boateng, rather than the governor. Protesters, dressed in black and red, carried placards with messages such as “scrap E-Levy now” and “stop the loot!”
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, led a demonstration on June 18 against the sale of four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, owned by Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong.
Ablakwa, along with Organised Labour and other stakeholders, challenged the process behind Rock City’s selection for purchasing the hotels.
The hotels in question included Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
Following the protest, Rock City withdrew its bid to purchase a 60% stake in these hotels, and SSNIT announced on July 12 that the sale process had been terminated. SSNIT assured the public of its commitment to managing the Trust’s affairs prudently.
“Discontinuation of Sale of 60% stake in Hotels. The Board and Management of Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) wish to inform the public that the process to divest 60% of SSNIT’s stake in the hotels has been terminated.
“We wish to assure pensioners, contributors and the public of our commitment to managing the affairs of the Trust prudently for the sustainability of the Pension Scheme,” the statement from SSNIT said.