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The Minority in Parliament walked out of the House on Thursday, July 17, in protest against comments made by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga regarding the Akwatia parliamentary seat, which became vacant following the recent passing of MP Ernest Yaw Kumi.
During parliamentary proceedings, Mahama Ayariga raised concerns over the delay in formally declaring the seat vacant. He questioned Speaker Alban Bagbin on when the necessary notification would be sent to the Electoral Commission to trigger a by-election.
“Whenever a vacancy occurs in Parliament, the Clerk of Parliament shall notify the Electoral Commission in writing within seven days after becoming aware. Mr. Speaker, if Ghanaians ask the Clerk if they are aware or not, can he say he is not aware?” Ayariga asked.
He explained that the death of the MP had already been acknowledged during a recent condolence visit by Parliamentary leadership to the bereaved family, and the Clerk of Parliament had personally met the family, confirming the death — all of which had been captured on national television.
However, Speaker Bagbin responded by stating that Parliament could only act upon formal communication from the late MP’s family before proceeding to declare the seat vacant and notify the Electoral Commission.
Tensions escalated when Ayariga further alleged that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) had begun circulating campaign posters of Mavis Kumi, the widow of the late MP, suggesting her interest in contesting the expected by-election.
The Minority strongly opposed Ayariga’s remarks, describing them as inappropriate and insensitive, particularly at a time when the family and constituents were still in mourning. Viewing the comments as premature and politically charged, they exited the chamber in protest.
The walkout highlights growing friction in Parliament as political parties prepare for what is expected to be a hotly contested by-election in Akwatia.
