Parliament Must Lead by Example in Using Local Languages - Biri Emmanuel

Parliament Must Lead by Example in Using Local Languages - Biri Emmanuel

Mr. Biri Emmanuel, Convener of the Socialist Movement of Ghana, Bibiani Collective, has urged Parliament to adopt the use of mother languages during debates and deliberations to promote greater participation among Members of Parliament (MPs).

Speaking in an interview with the media, Mr. Emmanuel said that if the Ghana Education Service (GES) has recognized the importance of local languages and introduced them into schools, then the same principle should be applied at the national level—starting from Parliament itself.

He explained that language plays a crucial role in effective communication and participation, and that many MPs are often unable to fully contribute to discussions in Parliament because of the language barrier posed by English.

“Most MPs spend their entire four years in the House without expressing their opinions on key national issues simply because they are not confident enough to communicate in English,” Mr. Emmanuel stated.

He further noted that the use of local languages in Parliament would not only make debates more inclusive but would also help bridge the communication gap between MPs and their constituents. He added that it would allow representatives to convey the views of the people they represent more effectively.

Mr. Emmanuel emphasized that promoting local languages at such a high level of governance would set an example for other institutions to follow, thereby preserving Ghana’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

He concluded by calling on Parliament, the Ministry of Education, and other relevant authorities to consider practical steps toward implementing the use of Ghanaian languages in national discourse, starting from legislative proceedings.

“If GES has started this good initiative in schools, then Parliament—the nation’s highest decision-making body—should lead by example,” he stressed.

Source:Bibianinews.com