The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, has responded to reports suggesting he acted harshly toward TV3 journalist Christian Yalley, after declining an interview request in Parliament on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

The incident occurred shortly after chaos erupted in the chamber during proceedings.

TV3’s parliamentary correspondent approached Ahiafor, who was at the time in the company of some Majority MPs and police officers, to seek clarification on the disturbances.

However, Ahiafor declined the interview, insisting that the journalist had breached parliamentary protocols.

His refusal sparked public criticisms, with some Ghanaians describing his conduct as unfair and disrespectful to the media.

'Don't put a microphone in my mouth and call me honourable' - Ahiafor chides Journalist

But in a detailed statement issued via his Facebook page on Wednesday, December 10, the First Deputy Speaker rejected claims that he acted in an unfriendly manner.

“My attention has been drawn to several publications suggesting that I conducted myself in an unfriendly manner towards a journalist during yesterday’s parliamentary engagement.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I wish to clarify that I hold the media in the highest regard and continue to value the indispensable role journalists play in sustaining our democracy,” he wrote.

Ahiafor stated that he has always maintained a cordial relationship with the press and has consistently made himself available for interviews.

“As First Deputy Speaker, I have always maintained a cordial working relationship with the press. Over the years, I have granted numerous interviews, both formally and informally, and have always been available to provide clarity on matters of public interest,” he added.

He also explained that his concern on the day of the incident was not about the journalist personally, but about the manner in which the interaction was initiated.

“Responsible journalism, however, requires that interactions with public office holders, particularly within the precincts of Parliament, are done with courtesy, decorum, and mutual respect. It is neither out of place nor unreasonable to request a proper sit-down engagement, as has been the practice in the past.

“My concern on the said day was simply about the manner in which the interaction was being initiated, not with the journalist personally or with the media as an institution,” he added.

NDC MP’s comment about Akufo-Addo that ‘angered’ Bernard Ahiafor

Explaining further, Bernard Ahiafor further stressed his continued openness to the media and expressed willingness to engage the journalist involved.

“I wish to state, without reservation, that I am open to a one-on-one conversation with my good friend, Yalley, just as I have consistently done with many others, including his senior colleague and my friend, Komla Klutsey, Bismark Kweku Asante and many other media reporters,” he stressed.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to productive engagements with the media fraternity.

“My doors remain open, and I look forward to continued productive engagements with the media fraternity. Mawu neyra miadenyigba lorlor la,” he concluded.



VKB/AE

Akufo-Addo could have cleared out NDC leadership' - Fatimatu on double salary scandal



Also, watch below Amnesty International's 'Protect the Protest' documentary as the world marks International Human Rights Day 2025