By Godwill Arthur-Mensah, GNA
Accra, Nov. 03, GNA – The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, on Tuesday ordered the Parliamentary Marshal to escort the Member of Parliament for Damongo, Mr Samuel Abu Jinapor, out of the Chamber for defying his directive during proceedings.
The Speaker’s action followed Mr Abu Jinapor’s failure to substantiate allegations that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa was involved in the sale of diplomatic passports for amounts ranging between US$10,000 and US$50,000.
During deliberations, Speaker Bagbin instructed the Damongo legislator to cease making the allegations, unless he was able to provide evidence to support the claims.
However, Mr Abu Jinapor persisted with the assertions despite repeated warnings from the Speaker.
The Speaker subsequently ruled that the MP had acted in defiance of his authority and ordered the Parliamentary Marshal to remove him from the Chamber.
The incident briefly disrupted proceedings before the House resumed its business.
Speaker Bagbin reiterated the need for Members of Parliament to adhere to the Standing Orders of the House and ensure that statements made on the floor are supported by credible evidence.
GNA
Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah
Email: [email protected]