A heated exchange occurred in Ghana's Parliament as Speaker Alban Bagbin confronted Minister for Communications, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, during a debate on a yet-to-be-laid Legislative Instrument (L.I.).

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The parliamentary discussion revolved around the proposed restriction of the importation of strategic products into the country, with active participation from both the Minority and the minister.

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Ursula Owusu-Ekuful caught the Speaker's attention by questioning the legitimacy of discussing the L.I. when it had not been officially laid before the House.

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She expressed her confusion, stating, “Mr. Speaker, I believe that the L.I. has not been laid. So I have no idea what they are debating in this House today. There is nothing before the House."

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The Speaker interjected, questioning Ursula's presence from the beginning of the session. Ursula responded that she had been present since the morning, even before the prayer.

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The Speaker challenged her, highlighting a contradiction in her response and questioning, "Do you really listen to yourself when you are talking?”

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Ursula affirmed that she indeed listens to herself, leading to further contention. The Speaker expressed doubt, stating, “I don’t think so,” and Ursula defended herself, asserting that she had been present since the beginning of the proceedings."This is the first time I am appearing in the House this week. I have been here since the beginning of proceedings today, and I do listen to myself very carefully," she is reported to have said.

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In response, the Speaker ordered Ursula to resume her seat, emphasizing, “Hon. Minister, this is not the Ministry of Communication; this is parliament. Resume your seat!”

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Later, Speaker Bagbin clarified that he raised the issue on the floor after Minister of Trade, Kobina Tahir Hammond, brought it to his attention.

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Despite initial conviction by KT Hammond, Bagbin sought the opinion of the House before allowing the instrument to be laid, resulting in the ongoing debate on the L.I.

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