The Majority in Parliament has prevented Akwatia Member of Parliament, Ernest Yaw Kumi, from delivering a statement on the floor, citing his ongoing legal troubles as the reason for the decision.

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The caucus argued that an individual with a contempt conviction and an outstanding bench warrant should not be permitted to address the House.

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Kumi, who is currently appealing a contempt ruling issued by the Koforidua High Court, has also filed an application for a stay of execution to suspend the court’s order while the appeal is under review.

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The High Court found Kumi in contempt for violating an injunction that had barred his swearing-in as an MP. Following his failure to appear before the court for sentencing, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest.

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In response, the Minority has criticized the court's decision, describing the ruling as overly harsh. Speaking to the media, Second Deputy Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib expressed dissatisfaction with the development.

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“Legal steps have been taken. A notice of appeal has been filed against the ruling of the High Court at the Court of Appeal. An application for stay of execution pending appeal has also been filed at the High Court in Koforidua,” Shaib stated.

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He further revealed that all relevant parties, including the presiding judge, His Lordship Justice Emmanuel Senyo Amedeheh, have been officially served regarding an application for certiorari and prohibition before the Supreme Court.

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“Further legal steps will be taken, and the Minority Caucus in Parliament will keep the Ghanaian public informed on the way forward,” Shaib added.

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The Minority also cautioned that the court’s ruling could undermine the democratic values of fairness, justice, and the rule of law if allowed to stand.

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Background

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The legal battle began on January 3, 2025, when the Koforidua High Court issued an interim injunction preventing Ernest Yaw Kumi from being sworn in as MP for Akwatia. The injunction was filed by Henry Boakye-Yiadom, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate and former MP, who disputed the election results.

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Despite the court order, Kumi proceeded with his swearing-in on January 7, 2025. His legal team, led by Lawyer Gary Nimako, challenged the injunction, but the court dismissed the application.

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On February 19, 2025, the court issued a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest after he failed to appear for contempt proceedings, citing his disregard for the initial injunction.

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Kumi’s appeal and the ongoing legal processes will determine whether he can continue his role as a legislator without legal hindrance.

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