Tensions escalated in Parliament on Friday, February 21, 2025, as the Majority and Minority clashed over the contempt conviction of Akwatia MP, Ernest Yaw Kumi.

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Heated exchanges filled the chamber, with MPs standing and shouting over one another in a chaotic scene captured by JoyNews.

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The Majority side firmly opposed allowing Kumi to speak on the floor, citing a bench warrant issued against him. They argued that since the court had declared him in contempt, he could not be permitted to participate in parliamentary proceedings.

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Kumi, who has appealed against his contempt ruling, was found guilty by the Koforidua High Court for violating an injunction by proceeding with his swearing-in as an MP. On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the court withheld sentencing due to his absence and issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

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His legal team has since filed an application to put the warrant on hold pending the appeal.

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Addressing the press on Thursday, Second Deputy Minority Whip, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, raised concerns about how the court was handling the case. He accused the judge of bias, insisting that the appeal should have been reviewed before any further action was taken.

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The controversy surrounding Kumi’s election dates back to December 2024, when the Electoral Commission (EC) declared him the winner of the Akwatia parliamentary seat. However, his victory was challenged in court by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Henry Boakye-Yiadom, who alleged electoral irregularities.

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As the legal battle continues, Parliament remains divided, with the Minority defending Kumi’s right to participate in proceedings while the Majority insists that the bench warrant prevents him from doing so.

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Watch the video below:

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Tension rises as MPs shout at each other, banging tables in chaos.#JoyNews pic.twitter.com/1FnBEQnVnj— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) February 21, 2025

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