Accra, Ghana – January 29, 2025: The Minority Caucus of Parliament has issued a strong condemnation against the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, Ms. Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, for alleged contemptuous conduct towards Parliament.
In a press statement signed by the Minority Leader, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the Caucus described Ms. Hardcastle’s behaviour as “one of the most flagrant attacks on parliamentary dignity in recent memory,” calling for decisive sanctions to uphold the sanctity of the House.
According to the statement, Ms. Hardcastle reportedly directed disparaging comments toward the Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Frank Annor-Dompreh, and described a senior Member of Parliament’s remarks as “silly.”
The Minority Caucus views her actions as an unacceptable assault on parliamentary authority and a threat to the foundations of democratic governance.
The Caucus highlighted that her alleged conduct comes weeks after a national call by President Mahama on public officials to eschew arrogance and show respect to the people of Ghana in their public service. They stressed the need for public officials to maintain the highest standards of decorum in their interactions with Parliament.
The Minority Caucus further referenced a historical precedent, citing the landmark case of Hon. K.T. Hammond v. William Ampem-Darko, to underscore Parliament’s long-standing principle of protecting its authority and dignity from external interference or insults.
The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, is set to personally hear representations on this matter on Thursday, January 30, 2025, in the absence of a constituted Committee on Privileges and Immunities. The Minority Caucus expressed hope that the Speaker’s ruling would send a deterrent message to public officials about respecting parliamentary processes.
In their statement, the Minority Caucus proposed the following:
- Ms. Hardcastle’s actions should attract exemplary sanctions to prevent similar future occurrences.
- Parliament must deliver a strong message emphasizing that attempts to undermine its authority will face severe consequences.
- Public officials must understand the significance of their conduct when engaging with Parliament.
The Caucus also called for strict application of sanctions under the Standing Orders of Parliament, including fines, public apologies, restrictions, or imprisonment, as appropriate. They insisted that the resolution of this matter would set a crucial precedent for future interactions between public officials and Parliament.
The Minority Caucus has reiterated that the dignity of Parliament is non-negotiable and must be protected at all costs. With the Speaker’s decision expected on Friday, stakeholders are urged to monitor this case as a critical moment for Ghana’s democratic governance.
Story By: Robicon Mornahson
