Dozens of Members of Parliament (MPs) on Friday, February 6, turned the chamber into a colourful display of Ghanaian culture, as they arrived in popular traditional smocks, known locally as ‘fugu’ or ‘batakari’, in solidarity with President John Mahama following reactions to his outfit during a recent visit to Zambia.
The symbolic show of cultural pride follows social media commentary in Zambia after President Mahama appeared in a dark-coloured fugu during a three-day state visit in the country.
What began as online mockery and misunderstanding of the attire quickly evolved into a spirited cultural exchange, with Ghanaians rallying to defend not just the President, but the cultural identity the smock represents.
That celebration made its way into Parliament, where MPs, particularly on the Majority side, arrived dressed in vibrant smocks, making a bold cultural statement.
While many of the MPs in smocks were men, the moment drew even more admiration when the NDC MP for Salaga South, Zuwera Ibrahima Mohammed, entered the chamber fully dressed in a smock, earning smiles, nods, and applause from colleagues.
Speaking to JoyNews’ Kwaku Asante, MP for Afadjato South, Frank Afriyie, said the backlash against the President’s attire was rooted in ignorance.
“Every cultural setting has its unique way of dressing. Indians, East Asians, Africans, we must be defined by our unique identity,” he said.
MP for Kwesimintsim, Philip Fiifi Buckman, described the moment as an opportunity rather than an insult.
“You just have to pardon ignorance and show them what it is… It’s a matter of branding,” he noted, adding that the situation could even open markets for Ghanaian smock weavers abroad.
For MP for Madina, Francis-Xavier Sosu, the gesture was one of solidarity with the President.
“I’m inspired by His Excellency’s dressing in Zambia… Today I decided to join the President in solidarity to proudly wear my fugu to show the world how beautiful fugu can be,” he said.
Salaga South MP, Zuwera Ibrahima Mohammed, also used the moment to advocate for cultural self-promotion.
“No one can sell you better than yourself… The smock comes in very beautiful colours and motifs, and people should feel happy to wear it,” she said, urging Ghanaians to seize the moment to promote local culture globally.
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