In a dramatic turn of events on Tuesday, January 28, Tamale South MP and Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has called for a public apology from Emeafa Hardcastle, the Acting CEO of the Petroleum Commission, following a verbal altercation between her and Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh.

The confrontation occurred during a break in the Parliamentary Appointments Committee proceedings, amid discussions surrounding bribery allegations raised by activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor. Hardcastle’s controversial remark, referring to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus as a “Micro-Minority,” reportedly sparked the tension between the two.

As committee members stepped out for a brief recess, the disagreement between Annoh-Dompreh and Hardcastle escalated in front of witnesses, with Hardcastle reportedly questioning the Minority Chief Whip’s intentions. Annoh-Dompreh swiftly responded, challenging Hardcastle’s choice of words.

In Parliament shortly after, Iddrisu condemned the remarks as damaging to Annoh-Dompreh’s reputation as an elected official. He demanded an immediate public apology from Hardcastle and urged Annoh-Dompreh to avoid escalating the matter further, suggesting it should be resolved through the Privileges Committee.

“The unjustified remarks made against the Minority Whip have harmed his reputation,” Iddrisu stated. “We must stand united in condemning this conduct and demand an apology.”

The Minister also emphasized the importance of Parliament’s disciplinary powers in addressing such issues, referencing the authority granted in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

Meanwhile, Comfort Doyoe, the First Deputy Whip of the Majority group, weighed in, suggesting that Annoh-Dompreh allow her to take the lead in addressing the situation with Hardcastle. Doyoe noted that the matter had already been resolved with an apology from Hardcastle and that it should be handled within the Women’s Caucus for a more balanced resolution.

The incident, which occurred amid a highly charged political atmosphere, has added fuel to ongoing tensions within Ghana’s Parliament as the Appointments Committee continues its vetting process.

Source:TheDotNews