News:
November 4, 2026
Minority caucus has expressed deep disappointment at the Speaker of Parliament’s decision to order the Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, out of the chamber, describing the action as “disproportionate” and “an act of parliamentary bullying.”
Addressing a press conference led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus said Jinapor had complied with the Speaker’s directive by expressly withdrawing his remarks, yet was still punished. “His compliance was rewarded by punishment,” Afenyo-Markin said, adding that “a request by a member for clarification does not by itself constitute defiance.”
The Minority Leader said the sanction was unjust and needless, stating: “We consider that response disproportionate, and in its effects, an act of parliamentary bullying. I said this deliberately, respectfully, and without pleasure.”
Afenyo-Markin acknowledged the Speaker’s responsibility to maintain order and require allegations to be substantiated, but argued that “authority commands its greatest respect when exercised with restraint.” He added that “an express withdrawal in compliance with a speaker’s directive deserves acknowledgement, not punishment.”
The caucus said it had met with Jinapor to express solidarity over treatment it described as “unjust, needless, and high-handed,” insisting that the dignity of the House requires fairness, “especially when fairness is uncomfortable.”
The Minority Leader also urged the Speaker to distinguish disagreement from disrespect, asking that “challenges be met with composure, disagreement distinguished from disrespect, and authority exercised with patience.”
The press conference also touched on allegations that diplomatic passports are being sold for between $10,000 and $15,000, with the Minority calling for parliamentary committees to investigate the matter and for the Foreign Minister to be heard. The government has not yet responded to the allegations or the Minority’s claims.
Ghanamps.com