The Minority Caucus has strongly condemned the actions of Ms. Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, for her contemptuous behavior towards the Leadership of Parliament.
The incident, which occurred on January 28, 2025, represents a severe attack on parliamentary dignity and demands a stern response from the House.
The Minority caucus in a statement mentioned that, Ms. Hardcastle’s attempt to direct Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Frank Annor-Dompreh, in his parliamentary duties, along with her description of a senior Member of Parliament as “silly,” has been deemed an egregious assault on parliamentary authority that cannot go unchallenged.
This conduct, according to the minority caucus, undermines the fundamental principles of democratic governance and must be met with full parliamentary sanctions.
The matter is particularly concerning as it comes mere weeks after President Mahama’s called on his appointees to eschew “arrogance and disrespect” towards the people of Ghana in their public service”.
The statement mentioned that, when the matter was raised on the floor of Parliament by Hon. Annor-Dompreh, it received overwhelming bipartisan condemnation, demonstrating Parliament’s united stance against such behavior.
The Minority Caucus highlighted the landmark case of Hon. K. T. Hammond v William Ampem Darko, which established that no member of the public has the authority to direct or assault a Member of Parliament for their views expressed during parliamentary proceedings.
This precedent underscores Parliament’s commitment to protecting its privileges and dignity.
The statement, emphasized that, the Rt. Hon. Speaker has decided to personally hear representations from both parties on January 30, 2025, due to the absence of a constituted Committee on Privileges and Immunities.
Below is the press statement
