Multilingualism in parliamentary discourse: Unpacking ideological conflicts over the use of native languages in the parliament of Ghana

This study examines X users' (formerly Twitter) reactions to Hon. Ohene Kwame Frimpong's use of the Akan language in Ghana's Parliament—a move legally allowed but socially contested. Using critical discourse analysis, it examines the language ideologies surrounding multilingualism in the legislative sphere. Findings show a divided youth perspective: while some praise the use of native languages as promoting linguistic diversity, revitalisation, and resistance to English dominance, the majority express concern. They argue it sets a negative precedent, undermining professionalism, international competitiveness, and even linguistic diversity itself. A key fear is that privileging Akan in parliament may lead to its expansion at the expense of other indigenous languages, further deepening linguistic inequality in Ghana's multilingual landscape. • Many young Ghanaians perceive the use of indigenous languages in Parliament as undermining professionalism and the formal tone expected in legislative discourse. • English is widely viewed by respondents as essential for accessing global opportunities and maintaining Ghana's international image. • A dominant concern is that allowing native languages in Parliament may paradoxically threaten Ghana's linguistic diversity by promoting one language—Akan—over others. • Some youth celebrate the use of local languages as a bold step toward resisting English hegemony and revitalising indigenous linguistic identity. • The fear of Akan linguistic expansionism fuels resistance, with some arguing it may marginalise less dominant indigenous languages in national policymaking.