Accra, June 30, 2025 — The Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica), in collaboration with the Parliament of Ghana, has successfully hosted the second National Youth Mock Parliament as part of activities to commemorate the 2025 International Day of Parliamentarianism.
Observed globally on June 30 every year since its establishment by a United Nations General Assembly resolution in 2018, the day recognizes the role of parliaments in strengthening democracy, governance, and accountability.
The Youth Mock Parliament assembled passionate student parliamentarians drawn from tertiary institutions across the country. The young legislators were grouped into majority and minority caucuses, elected a Speaker to preside over proceedings, and simulated a real-life parliamentary sitting. Key issues deliberated included a statement on the menace of illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana and a question time session that addressed challenges hampering smooth ECOWAS integration.
In preparation for the simulation, the youth parliamentarians participated in a Capacity Building and Mentorship Programme, featuring insightful sessions with experienced parliamentary actors and governance experts.
Mr. Prosper Hoetu, former Director of the Citizen Bureau of Parliament, led a mentorship session, stressing the need for deliberate national efforts to nurture future leaders. “We need to be intentional about creating opportunities for mentorship of young people so that we have a better society,” he said. He further encouraged the youth to build the skills and knowledge necessary to engage meaningfully in governance processes.
Members of Parliament who participated in the mentorship engagement included the MP for Pru West, Hon. Emmanuel Kofi Ntekuni, who advised the youth to remain resolute in their political ambitions. “A political career is a daunting one,” he said. “In politics, patience is a virtue. You should know when to strike and when to hold on or let go.”
Hon. Davis Opoku, MP for Mpraeso, addressed a popular misconception about the role of MPs in local development. He emphasized that the undue pressure constituents place on MPs for development projects often stems from a misunderstanding of their mandate. “Until we decide as a country to elect our MMDCEs, our MPs will continue to suffer pressure from the people for development,” he noted.
The National Youth Mock Parliament initiative continues to serve as a unique platform for building the capacity of young Ghanaians in legislative procedures and participatory governance. It also reinforces the values of accountability, transparency, and democratic participation among the next generation of leaders.
PNAfrica and the Parliament of Ghana reiterated their commitment to empowering the youth to take up active roles in governance through platforms like the Youth Mock Parliament.
Tap to see more photos from the event. [https://tinyl.io/CGTl]
Source: Clement Akoloh || Parliamentary Network Africa
