Tensions has briefly risen in Parliament as Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) exchanged chants during the presentation of the 2026 Mid-Year Budget Review by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
According to reports from the chamber, NPP MPs began chanting “Free Wontumi” in reference to Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, following his recent legal troubles and imprisonment.
In response, some NDC MPs reportedly countered with chants calling for the return of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who has been a subject of controversy and investigations linked to his time in office.
The exchange created a charged atmosphere in Parliament as lawmakers from both sides expressed their political positions through the chants.
The incident occurred during the Finance Minister’s address, where he presented the government’s review of the economy, including updates on revenue performance, expenditure, debt management, and other key policy measures.
Political observers say the reaction from both sides reflects the ongoing tensions between the governing NDC and opposition NPP, with each party using parliamentary moments to highlight issues affecting their supporters.
Chairman Wontumi, a prominent NPP figure and Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, has continued to receive public support from some party members following his court case and sentencing.
Meanwhile, Ken Ofori-Atta, who served as Finance Minister under the previous NPP administration, remains a key figure in political discussions following allegations and investigations surrounding his tenure.
The parliamentary exchange has since sparked debate on social media, with some users criticising the use of chants during formal parliamentary proceedings, while others view it as part of political expression within the House.
