Tensions escalate in Parliament as Majority blocks Akwatia MP from speaking over conviction
There was a heated exchange in Parliament on Friday, February 21, 2025, as tensions flared between the Minority and Majority over the contempt conviction of the Member of Parliament of Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi.
The debate grew intense, with parliamentarians standing and shouting over each other, as captured in a video shared by JoyNews.
The Majority successfully prevented him from making a statement on the floor, arguing that a bench warrant had been issued against him, and, therefore, he could not be allowed to speak.
Ernest Kumi has appealed against his contempt of court conviction, which was handed down by the High Court in Koforidua, after he defied an injunction by presenting himself for swearing-in as an MP.
On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the court found him guilty but withheld sentencing due to his absence, issuing a bench warrant for his arrest instead. His legal team has since filed an application to stay the execution of the bench warrant pending the appeal.
Addressing the Parliamentary Press Corps on Thursday, Second Deputy Minority Whip, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, questioned the court’s handling of the case, alleging judicial bias.
He argued that the judge should have considered the content of the appeal before taking further action.
The dispute over his election began in December 2024 when the Electoral Commission (EC) declared him the winner of the Akwatia parliamentary seat.
However, the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) candidate, Henry Boakye-Yiadom, challenged the results in court, citing electoral irregularities.
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Source: www.ghanaweb.com
