Bagbin Can’t Hold His Laughter as MP Asks Minister to Reveal Number of Shrines in Ghana

According to a report by The 1957 News On Friday October 31, 2025, Parliament experienced a rare moment of humor when the Member of Parliament for Kwadaso, Professor Kingsley Nyarko, asked a surprising question during a parliamentary session. The legislator directed his question to the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, seeking to know the number of shrines in Ghana.

The question immediately drew attention in the chamber. Speaker Alban Bagbin’s reaction to the inquiry became the highlight of the session. His facial expression, a mix of surprise and amusement, sent laughter across the House. Some MPs could not hide their smiles, while others whispered among themselves, amused by the unexpected nature of the question.

Although the question sounded unusual to many, it raised a valid issue about the documentation and regulation of traditional religious practices in Ghana. In response, Minister Ahmed Ibrahim admitted that it would be difficult to determine the exact number of shrines in the country. He explained that many of these places of worship exist informally in various communities, making it hard to have a precise count.

The video of Speaker Bagbin’s reaction quickly went viral on social media, attracting widespread attention. Many Ghanaians shared their amusement, while others commended the MP for raising a question that touched on Ghana’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Some social media users praised the Speaker for maintaining decorum despite the comic moment.

This incident offered a lighter moment in Parliament and reminded citizens that even serious national discussions can carry a sense of humor. It also brought to light the importance of acknowledging Ghana’s diverse religious landscape.

Click here to watch the video