Parliament descended into chaos on on friday 21st February 2025 after an attempt by the embattled Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi, to make a statement on the floor was met with strong resistance from the Majority side.
The tense standoff forced the Second Deputy Speaker, Andrew Asiamah, to abruptly adjourn the sitting.
The controversy stems from a recent ruling by the Koforidua High Court 3, which convicted Kumi of contempt and declared him wanted.
Despite this, Asiamah, who was presiding over proceedings, called on him to make his statement.
However, this move was immediately challenged by Majority MPs, led by their leader, Mahama Ayariga, who cited the ongoing legal issues surrounding Ernest Yaw Kumi.
Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson-Dafeamekpor took a stronger stance, describing the Akwatia MP as a “fugitive of justice” and insisting he should not be allowed to speak.
He urged the Speaker to adjourn the House to prevent the Akwatia MP from addressing Parliament.
The Minority, however, opposed the adjournment. Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin argued that Kumi’s lawyers had already filed an appeal and a stay of execution against the court’s ruling.
He insisted that since legal processes were ongoing, the MP should be allowed to speak.
Tensions escalated as both sides exchanged heated words, with some Majority MPs physically attempting to prevent Kumi from taking his seat.
The intense confrontation made it nearly impossible for Parliament to proceed, prompting the Speaker to first suspend proceedings before ultimately adjourning the sitting altogether.
The chaotic events highlight the deep divisions in Parliament over the embattled MP’s legal situation and the broader implications of court rulings on parliamentary privileges.
It remains unclear when Parliament will reconvene and whether Ernest Yaw Kumi will be permitted to participate in future sittings.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
