In Ghana, it’s a common sight to see politicians adorned with the title “Honourable.” From Members of Parliament to Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and even Assembly Members, the prefix “Honourable” is a ubiquitous part of their nomenclature. But have you ever stopped to think about the origins and implications of this title?
The use of “Honourable” in Ghana is often attributed to our colonial legacy, borrowed from the British parliamentary system. However, a closer look reveals that the British usage is more nuanced. In the UK, “Honourable” is not a title per se, but rather a descriptive term used to address Members of Parliament, as in “the Honourable Member for…”. Only the Speaker of Parliament bears the title “The Right Honourable…”.
In Ghana, however, the “Honourable” has taken on a life of its own, becoming a coveted title that commands respect and deference. But what does it really signify? Does it reflect the character, integrity, and actions of our leaders, or is it merely a superficial badge of honor?
The problem lies not just in the misuse of the title, but also in the disconnect between the title and the actual behavior of our politicians. When we address our leaders as “Honourable,” are we acknowledging their genuine commitment to public service, or are we simply perpetuating a culture of sycophancy and obsequiousness?
Moreover, the overuse of the title “Honourable” can lead to a sense of entitlement and arrogance among our leaders. It can create a perception that they are above accountability and scrutiny, rather than being public servants answerable to the people.
So, what can we do? Should we abandon the use of the title “Honourable” altogether? Perhaps a more nuanced approach would be to reserve the title for those who truly demonstrate honourable behavior, rather than simply bestowing it upon individuals based on their positions.
Ultimately, the value of the title “Honourable” lies not in the prefix itself, but in the actions and character of our leaders. As citizens, we must demand more from our politicians, holding them to high standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability. Only then can we truly say that our leaders are worthy of the title “Honourable.” Alexander Afriyie