A fresh controversy has emerged in Ghana’s Parliament ahead of next week’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) after First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor blocked a proposal to include cocoa farmers and other ordinary citizens among invited guests.

The proposal was raised by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ofoase-Ayirebi and Ranking Member on the Economy and Development Committee, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah.

Mr Oppong Nkrumah argued that SONA, as a national moment of reflection, should symbolically represent all sectors of society, especially those whose labour underpins the economy.

He cited historical precedents where ordinary occupational groups were invited to state ceremonies.

Deputy Speaker Ahiafor responded sharply, reminding Oppong Nkrumah that he has no authority over the guest list for the presidential address, effectively shutting down the proposal.

The incident has reignited debate over inclusivity and representation in SONA, a traditionally elite event attended by government officials, diplomats, security chiefs, and dignitaries.

By rejecting the inclusion of cocoa farmers, the episode highlights tensions between preserving ceremonial protocol and reflecting broader societal participation in national events.