The discursive construction of solidarity by Ghanaian female parliamentarians

• Kwabena Sarfo Sarfo-Kantankah ^[1] ; Richmond Sadick Ngula ^[2] ; Mark Nartey ^[3]
  1. [1] University of Cape Coast

     University of Cape Coast

     Ghana

     
  2. [2] University of Botswana

     University of Botswana

     Botsuana

     
  3. [3] University of the West of England

     University of the West of England

     Reino Unido

     

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• Localización: Journal of language and politics, ISSN 1569-2159, Vol. 23, Nº. 1, 2024, págs. 91-112
• Idioma: inglés
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  • Research on issues of women has largely focused attention on, among others, power asymmetries and gender stereotypes, with less emphasis on positive linguistic mechanisms of women. Drawing on a critical discourse analytical approach and using Ghanaian parliamentary debates as data, this paper examines how female members of parliament (MPs) construct solidarity. The paper finds that, first, Ghanaian female MPs construct solidarity by positioning themselves as agents and the voice of (Ghanaian) women by using the inclusive-we and our/us. Second, the MPs engage in solidarity formation for (Ghanaian) women empowerment by championing the cause of women and calling for female empowerment. Third, the MPs demonstrate solidarity through congratulatory messages that highlight the achievements of (Ghanaian) women. Finally, the MPs resist discourses that discriminate against (Ghanaian) women. This paper highlights the need for marginalized voices to be centred in CDA research and contributes to the burgeoning scholarship on reparative critical practices.