Asante Akyem North MP Speaks Twi in Parliament for the First Time

Hon. Ohene Kwame Frimpong, the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, made history by addressing a statement on the floor of Parliament in the local Twi dialect. This significant move highlights the importance of promoting local languages in Ghana’s parliamentary proceedings.

In an interview with the media, Hon. Frimpong emphasised the need for Parliament to provide the necessary equipment or technology for translation, ensuring that all members can effectively communicate in their local languages.

Currently, members are allowed to speak in local languages, subject to translation based on Standing Order 63(1), but this opportunity has not been fully utilised by past and present Members of Parliament.

“I decided to test the law to see how it will go for records to capture that once upon a time, a first time, MP stood up on the floor of Parliament to speak in his local dialect when contributing. We the politicians speak our local language when we seek the vote of our constituents, we are here to represent them so we need to speak the language they understand,” he stated.

As a newly elected MP, Hon. Frimpong has already demonstrated his commitment to serving his constituents and promoting local development. His decision to join the NDC caucus in the 9th Parliament has also sparked political discussions.

Story by Nana Kwaku Boffah