The aftermath of Ghana’s 2024 general elections has stirred tensions in the 9th Parliament, with experts linking recent legislative conflicts to psychological distress among Members of Parliament (MPs).
Bismark Kwabla Kpobi, Executive Director of the BSK Health Advocacy Foundation, suggests that the Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis may explain the increasing hostility between the two major political parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The theory, originally proposed by Dollard, Miller, and others in 1939, argues that when individuals or groups face obstacles in achieving their goals, they may experience frustration, which can manifest as aggression. According to Kpobi, the landslide victory of the NDC and the underwhelming performance of the NPP have created a state of cognitive dissonance among MPs, leading to heightened tensions and behavioral misconduct.
Psychological Impact of the 2024 Elections
The unexpected election results have reportedly left many MPs grappling with intense emotions such as anger, fear, and anxiety. Kpobi warns that unresolved psychological distress could affect their ability to regulate emotions, potentially leading to impulsive and aggressive behavior in Parliament. The mental strain, he explains, is linked to changes in brain function and neurotransmitter activity, which can result in heightened aggression.
Furthermore, Kpobi highlights the psychological toll of traumatic political events, noting that MPs may engage in disruptive behavior as a coping mechanism. He suggests that newly elected MPs and those who lost key leadership positions may experience disorientation and frustration, further exacerbating conflicts in the legislature.
Power Struggles and Legislative Tensions
With the NDC holding a commanding majority and the NPP relegated to the minority, power struggles in Parliament have intensified. Kpobi argues that feelings of powerlessness and frustration among NPP MPs could contribute to disruptive behavior. The shift in parliamentary composition, coupled with the loss of experienced lawmakers, has further deepened tensions.
“The desire to fit in, seek comfort, or cope with emotions can drive MPs’ misbehavior. The shocking events from the 2024 elections can trigger unconscious conflicts, leading to misbehavior as a way to cope with or express repressed emotions,” Kpobi stated.
Call for Psychological Interventions
To prevent further conflicts and ensure effective governance, Kpobi urges MPs to seek professional mental health support. He advocates for psychological therapies to help lawmakers process their emotions and work harmoniously across party lines. “A stable mental state is crucial for MPs to effectively serve the nation and make responsible use of taxpayer funds,” he emphasized.
As Ghana’s 9th Parliament navigates this turbulent period, political analysts stress the importance of fostering a constructive political environment. Experts argue that addressing MPs’ psychological well-being could lead to improved legislative cooperation and enhanced national development.
For now, however, the halls of Parliament remain a battleground, as unresolved frustration continues to fuel tensions in Ghana’s political landscape.
By: Bismark Kwabla Kpobi
Edited: Stella Botchwey
