Accra – The ongoing debate over the use of English in Ghana’s Parliament has taken a new twist, with O. K. Frimpong, the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, strongly reacting to comments made by former Information Minister Fatima Abubakar.
In a recent interview with TV3, Abubakar had stated that a significant number of majority MPs are struggling to communicate effectively in English during parliamentary proceedings. Her remarks have sparked both support and backlash, particularly from lawmakers and the public.
Speaking on the issue, Hon. O. K. Frimpong expressed disappointment at the former minister’s comments, calling them “unfortunate.” He emphasized that the MPs, including those in the majority, are well-versed in English and had, in fact, campaigned in the language during their political journeys.
“What the former Information Minister said about some majority MPs struggling to speak English in Parliament is very unfortunate,” Frimpong said. “Before we became parliamentarians, we had campaigned on very platforms, TV and radio stations using the English language. So, what is she talking about? We can speak the English language very well, but we should be proud of our own language. Besides, English is our colonial master’s language.”
Frimpong’s comments highlight a broader cultural and political conversation that has been brewing among some Ghanaians. While many agree that MPs should be proficient in English, there is also a growing sentiment that Ghanaian languages deserve more recognition and should be integrated into the country’s official discourse.
The debate is far from one-sided. After Frimpong’s response, many Ghanaians weighed in, some agreeing with him. “It’s about time we use our own language in Parliament,” said one social media user. Another added, “Our own languages have value too, and it’s time we stop hiding behind English.”
On the other side, critics argue that English, being the official language of Ghana, remains essential for formal and legal matters in Parliament. “Whether English is a colonial language or not, it’s the language of communication in Ghana,” said one commentator.
As the debate continues to unfold, it is clear that the role of English versus local languages in Ghana’s Parliament will remain a hot topic for the foreseeable future. Will MPs embrace a more bilingual approach, or will English continue to dominate the chamber? Only time will tell.
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