The vetting of the Minister-designate of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, was primarily conducted in English, the official language of the country.
However, during the proceedings, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader and Ranking Member of the Appointments Committee, decided to switch things up by testing Iddrisu’s proficiency in ‘Twi,’ one of the most widely spoken languages in Ghana.
Afenyo-Markin asked Iddrisu, “Haruna Iddrisu, how long have you served as a Member of Parliament?” in Twi, to which Iddrisu responded confidently, “Close to twenty years.”
This exchange drew applause from the Committee and other attendees.
In a light-hearted moment, Afenyo-Markin jokingly declared, “You’ve passed,” prompting more laughter and applause from those present.
The exchange brought to light Iddrisu’s linguistic capabilities, with his CV listing his proficiency in English, Dagbani, Hausa, and Twi.
Afenyo-Markin expressed his admiration for Iddrisu’s Twi proficiency, remarking, “I am impressed with your Twi. I sense there is a southern inspiration.”
Iddrisu, in turn, credited his wife for guiding him to improve his Twi, further lighting up the moment and showcasing the personal side of the minister-designate.
Watch the video below:
JKB/AE
