The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has referred Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin to the Privileges and Immunities Committee after concerns that he disregarded a formal parliamentary directive on Ghana’s representation at the ECOWAS Parliament.
The decision was delivered on Wednesday, November 27. Speaker Bagbin said a case of prima facie contempt had been established against the Minority Leader following reports that he continued to participate in ECOWAS Parliamentary activities despite being formally removed from Ghana’s delegation.
According to the Speaker, the allegations raise questions about the “dignity and institutional integrity” of Parliament, since the alleged actions contradict directives issued by the House. The complaint argued that Mr. Afenyo-Markin persistently ignored the directive to vacate his seat at the regional body.
Speaker Bagbin explained that the conduct, if confirmed, could amount to contempt under Article 117 of the Constitution and Orders 30 and 31 of the Standing Orders of Parliament.
“Having reviewed the complaint, the Standing Orders and the governing principles, I am satisfied that the matter prima facie implicates the dignity and institutional integrity of this House. Pursuant to Order 341, I therefore refer the complaint to the Committee on Privileges and Immunities for examination, inquiry, investigation and report,” he said.
He emphasized that the authority of Parliament relies not only on constitutional provisions but also on the conduct of its members. He urged MPs to avoid public commentary on the issue until the committee presents its findings.
Privileges Committee Takes Over
The Privileges and Immunities Committee, chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, has been tasked to carry out a detailed inquiry into:
- The sequence of events leading to the complaint
- Actions taken by both the Minority Leader and Parliament on the matter
- Whether the conduct constitutes contempt or breach of privilege
The committee will submit its findings and recommendations to the House for further action. Depending on the outcome, the process could result in sanctions or a full clearing of the Minority Leader.
Speaker Bagbin called for patience as the committee undertakes the investigation, stressing the importance of unity and respect for parliamentary decisions.
If you’d like, I can provide a headline variant or a short box with background on the ECOWAS representation issue for added context.
Story by Sheila Otuo – Baffour