The Committee tasked with investigating the disturbances that occurred during the vetting session on Thursday, January 30, has announced a suspension of its proceedings until further notice.
Emmanuel Bedzrah, the Chairman of the Committee, conveyed this decision, indicating that it aligns with directives issued by the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror.
Bedzrah elaborated that the Clerk had informed him that the Speaker of Parliament would provide further guidance regarding the committee’s future sessions.
“We have received indications from the Clerk of Parliament, and I wish to formally state that the Clerk has directed us to suspend the sitting until further notice.
“Thus, I want to clarify that it is not the committee’s decision to halt proceedings; rather, it is a request from the Clerk of the Parliament of Ghana, who has advised that we suspend our sessions until he receives additional instructions from the Speaker.”
The committee was actively engaged in its session when this directive was communicated.
The turmoil on January 30, 2025, arose when the Minority opposed the vetting of Okudzeto Ablakwa and Kwabena Mintah Akandoh. This confrontation escalated into a physical altercation among Members of Parliament, leading to the damage of tables and microphones.
In the aftermath of the incident, four MPs faced suspension, which prompted the Minority to exit the session. Consequently, the Majority proceeded with the vetting of Ablakwa and other nominees on January 31. It is noteworthy that the clash occurred after Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin had already conducted extensive questioning of Ablakwa.
Established by Speaker Alban Bagbin, the committee is tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the disruption on January 30, which led to a confrontation between the Minority and Majority regarding the timing of the vetting and the damage to equipment.
The committee, led by Ho West Member of Parliament Emmanuel Bedzrah, comprises members Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui, Abena Osei Asare, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, and Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng. It has been assigned a deadline of ten days to present its findings and recommendations.
Additionally, the committee has established a WhatsApp platform to gather information from the public.
