Parliament adjourns amid chaos over nurses’ strike statement

Ghana’s Parliament was thrown into turmoil on Tuesday (10 June) as Minority MPs clashed with the Speaker’s chair over the refusal to entertain a statement on the ongoing nationwide nurses’ strike.

The commotion led to an abrupt adjournment of proceedings and a near-physical ejection of the Ranking Member on the Health Committee, Dr Nana Ayew Afriye, by parliamentary marshals.

The incident unfolded shortly after routine business, when Majority Leader moved for adjournment.

But Dr Afriye, visibly agitated, rose on the floor to demand an urgent debate on the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) strike, which has severely disrupted healthcare services across the country since 4 June.

His request was immediately ruled out of order by the First Deputy Speaker, Bernard Ahiafor who was presiding.

Despite pleas from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin for the rules to be relaxed due to the “moral urgency” of the matter, the Deputy Speaker stood his ground.

“I intend not to grant any leave,” he stated, insisting that procedural rules could not be breached, even under pressure.

When Dr Afriyie continued to press for the floor, the Speaker called on the Marshal to remove him from the Chamber.

“Honourable Marshal, you’re hereby directed to walk Afriyie out of the House,” the Deputy Speaker ordered, prompting angry shouts from Minority MPs.

The GRNMA strike, now in its seventh day, has left emergency units understaffed and vital health services in limbo.

The Minority contends that the issue demands immediate parliamentary attention.

No official comment has yet been issued by the Speaker’s office on the incident.