In a dramatic turn of events, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin directed the Marshal to escort Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the Member of Parliament for Sefwi-Wiawso, out of the parliamentary chamber for making a comment deemed disrespectful.
The incident occurred during a session following President Akufo-Addo’s nomination of two justices to the Supreme Court. Speaker Bagbin had urged the House to consider the full complement of the Supreme Court when the Appointments Committee presents its report on the nominees.
Dr. Kwaku Afriyie responded critically, stating, “I believe that, as a representative of the good people of Sefwi-Wiawso, it does not lie in your mouth to remind us of the things that you said.” This remark prompted an immediate and stern reaction from the Speaker.
Describing the comment as “rude and disrespectful,” Speaker Bagbin exercised his authority to maintain decorum, saying, “This is a completely rude remark, and I can send you out of the house now in light of my authority to do so. You represent the good people of Sefwi-Wiawso, and I represent the whole country. Please, Marshal, take him out of the house. I will not tolerate such disrespect.”
In an effort to deescalate the situation, Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh apologized to the Speaker on behalf of the caucus. He acknowledged the Speaker’s leadership and expressed regret over the incident.
“Speaker, we acknowledge the wisdom with which you have guided us and how you have navigated us to this point. We have had moments of tension, and you have shown leadership. It is incumbent upon us as a leadership to help you right now. What happened a moment ago was unfortunate.”
Annoh-Dompreh continued, “On behalf of the entire caucus and my colleagues, I render my apologies to you and your office. We hope this draws the curtains on the matter. We are very sorry and apologise sincerely for what happened.”
The incident underscores the importance of maintaining respect and decorum within parliamentary proceedings.