NDC MPs prevent Akwatia MP from making statement in Parliament; insists on contempt conviction

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NDC MPs prevent Akwatia MP from making a statement in Parliament

Majority members in Parliament on Friday, February 21 prevented MP for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi from making a statement in Parliament, insisting he’s been convicted of contempt by a High Court.

The embattled MP for Akwatia, Ernest Kumi rose to make a statement on the floor of the House but Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga was fiercely opposed saying the lawmaker has been convicted for contempt by a High Court, pending sentencing and should not be allowed to make the statement.

This caused heated exchanges between members of the two caucuses forcing proceedings of Parliament to ended in a dramatic fashion when the Speaker adjourned sitting.

A furious Minority described the move as unfair, causing an eventual adjournment.

The High Court in Koforidua on February 19 issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Akwatia Member of Parliament after convicting him of contempt of court.

The ruling stems from Kumi’s decision to continue holding himself out as an MP despite an interim injunction barring him from being sworn into office.

The court had earlier directed him to refrain from assuming the parliamentary role until a legal dispute was resolved, but he defied the order and took the oath of office in Parliament.

Ernest Yaw Kumi has reportedly appealed against the contempt of court conviction slapped on him by the High Court in Koforidua.