Speaker Bagbin Declines to Refer Dr. Afriyie to Privileges Committee After Heated Clash in Parliament

Accra, Ghana - 12 June, 2025 - Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has declined to refer Ranking Member on the Health Committee Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie to the Privileges Committee following a heated confrontation in the House on June 10.

The clash erupted when Dr. Afriyie defied First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor's decision to block a statement on the ongoing strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA).

Background of the Confrontation

Dr. Afriyie's attempt to address the House despite Ahiafor's ruling sparked a chaotic scene, with the Speaker ordering the Marshal to remove him from the chamber. This move triggered strong protests and disorder among Minority MPs, forcing Speaker Bagbin to suspend proceedings until the next day.

Resolution without Disciplinary Action

Addressing the House on June 11, Speaker Bagbin emphasized that the matter would be resolved through open discussion among parliamentary leadership and members, rather than being referred to a committee. He rebuked Dr. Afriyie for bypassing proper channels, stressing that urgent statements must follow due process and that the title "Honourable" demands respect for the chair and the institution.

“The Speaker, however, the situation is always right on the floor. I want Hon. Members to take this in good faith. This is not a matter to be referred to any committee. It’s a matter that I have discussed with leadership, and we have agreed that it should be resolved. And we will solve it here openly for all of us to be guided, so that in future we don’t fall foul of the law.''

Source: Lead News Online