‘Strong criticism is legitimate but insult is not argument’ – Speaker urges restraint in public discourse

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called on Members of Parliament and the public to distinguish between legitimate political criticism and personal insults, stressing that accountability must not be undermined by abusive language.

The Speaker said Parliament had a responsibility to promote respectful public discourse, particularly because the conduct and language of lawmakers often influence national conversations.” Speaker Bagbin made the remarks while addressing an emergency sitting of Parliament on Tuesday, September 29, amid growing concerns about the use of insults in public life.