Parliament in Ghana witnessed a dramatic scene on Monday as Speaker Alban Bagbin ordered the removal of Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the Member of Parliament for Sefwi Wiawso. The tension arose from comments made by the legislator, which the Speaker deemed disrespectful and out of order.
During the parliamentary proceedings, the Speaker informed the House about the nomination of new judges to the Supreme Court. He emphasized the expectations of the people of Ghana regarding these nominations. Bagbin stated, “In giving you the information, I have given you an idea of the expectations of the people of Ghana. That is for you to consider as part of the report and for the House to decide whether we will approve or disapprove those nominations.”
He further clarified that the President was constitutionally obligated to make these nominations. “His Excellency clearly stated that he is constitutionally injuncted to do what he has done, and so it is now for you to also look at it,” Bagbin added. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, representing the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), was unimpressed by the Speaker’s remarks. He considered the comments prejudicial. Afriyie responded, “And I believe that, as one representing the good people of Sefwi Wiawso, it doesn’t lie in your mouth to remind us of the things that you have said.”
The speaker was quick to react to this perceived slight. Although the exact words spoken by Afriyie off the record were not clear, Bagbin’s response was swift and decisive. He ordered, “Marshal, take him out of the house. I will not entertain such disrespect. It lies in my mouth.” The parliamentary marshal was seen trying to escort Dr. Afriyie out of the chamber. Initially, the MP resisted, but eventually complied and left the chamber.
This incident highlights the increasing tensions within Ghana’s Parliament. The Speaker’s decision to enforce discipline so sternly highlights the importance of maintaining order and respect during parliamentary sessions. However, it also brings to light the underlying frictions between different factions within the legislative body.
Parliamentary decorum is crucial for the smooth functioning of any legislative body. In Ghana, the role of the Speaker is pivotal in ensuring that debates and discussions are conducted respectfully and constructively. Bagbin’s action sends a clear message about the standards of conduct expected from MPs.
