Agalga defends Bagbin’s order to expel Jinapor from Tuesday’s Parliamentary session

James Agalga, the Majority Leader in Parliament, defended Speaker Alban Bagbin's decision to expel Member of Parliament for Damongo, Samuel Abu Jinapor, from the chamber during Tuesday's Parliamentary session. Agalga clarified that members are not allowed to argue with or engage the presiding officer in debate, as per the Standing Orders. He insisted that Jinapor should have complied immediately when repeatedly directed by the Speaker to withdraw an allegation against Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Agalga emphasized that MPs must substantiate allegations with evidence or withdraw them upon the Speaker's directive. Although Jinapor eventually withdrew the allegation, his resistance to do so and his attempts to engage the Speaker in a debate prolonged the confrontation. He stressed that MPs must resume their seats when the Speaker starts addressing them, rather than challenging his directions or engaging in a debate.

Agalga highlighted the Speaker's responsibility to maintain order and discipline in the House, urging MPs to respect the authority of the chair. He cautioned against drawing conclusions based solely on short video clips or sound bites that do not capture the full exchange between the Speaker and Jinapor. The incident occurred when Jinapor claimed to have evidence of diplomatic passports being sold for between $10,000 and $50,000, which was challenged by Agalga.

After a prolonged exchange, Jinapor eventually withdrew the allegation, prompting the Speaker to order the Marshal of Parliament to escort him out of the chamber.