A stranger to parliament, George Glory Opeku, who was involved in the chaos that erupted on the night of January 30 at the Appointments Committee hearing, appeared before the parliamentary investigative committee today, Monday, 10th February.

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He was accompanied by his counsel and asked to explain his involvement in the disruption. He had been summoned the previous Friday and was asked to return with legal representation, which he did.

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Mr Opeku stated that he attended the session as a citizen observer, having been cleared by security upon arrival. He mentioned his interest in witnessing the vetting of Samuel Nartey George and Okudzeto Ablakwa, without any direct invitation from the nominees.

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During the proceedings, Mr Opeku was seated in the public gallery but became involved when chaos erupted among Members of Parliament that night.

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He claimed that his actions, as seen in video footage, were attempts to “salvage the situation and protect public property,” fulfilling what he believed to be his duty as a citizen.

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He was captured reportedly calming down the MPs who were engaged in heated exchanges and near fisticuffs that led to the destruction of tables and microphones.

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Mr Opeku admitted his lack of awareness regarding standing orders that restrict ordinary citizens from attending parliamentary sessions without the Speaker’s authority or an invitation.

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He expressed remorse, stating that in the future, he would “advise himself and know how to go about with the standing orders.” The committee discharged him and his counsel, noting that he may be called upon again if necessary.

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