Tensions ran high in Ghana's Parliament as lawmakers from both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) engaged in a heated verbal battle over the government's response to the severe flooding triggered by the spillage of the Akosombo Dam.
The chaotic scene on the Parliament floor reached a point where microphones from both sides were active, and no single voice could be distinctly heard amid the commotion.
Earlier, Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh had led the Senior Management of the Volta River Authority (VRA) to brief Members of Parliament on the dam spillage.
Minister Opoku Prempeh dismissed allegations that the VRA had mishandled the situation, asserting that adequate sensitization had been conducted.
He emphasized that if the spillage had not been carried out, the water entering the reservoir would have overflowed the Akosombo Dam, resulting in catastrophic consequences for the people.
However, the Minority side of Parliament rejected these claims. John Jinapor, the NDC spokesperson on Mines and Energy, characterized the VRA's conduct as irresponsible, expressing doubt about the existence of any simulation.
He also questioned the lack of safe havens for those affected by the spillage.
In response, NPP MP for Tema West, Carlos Ahenkorah, defended the VRA, stating that the spillage was necessary to protect those living downstream, even though it resulted in an involuntary sacrifice for those affected.
