Parliamentary Session Disrupted As Old Tafo MP And First Deputy Speaker Clash Over Conduct
During a sitting of Ghana’s Parliament on Thursday, tension rose on the floor when the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, sharply confronted the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament over what he described as unfair treatment and disrespect in the chamber.
The disagreement unfolded after Assafuah attempted to engage in parliamentary proceedings. He felt sidelined and interrupted by the First Deputy Speaker, whom he accused of not allowing him to exercise his duty fully. According to on-site reports, Assafuah said in a raised voice that he and other lawmakers would respond in kind if they continued to be treated without courtesy.
The First Deputy Speaker, who was presiding at the time, insisted on maintaining order and adherence to the rules of procedure, as is standard in parliamentary operations. Parliamentary staff and other Members of Parliament had to intervene briefly to calm reactions and restore order in the chamber.
Lawmakers from both sides watched as the verbal exchange happened, with some calling for respect for the institution and others backing Assafuah’s right to raise points of concern. Audio and video shared online from the session showed Assafuah saying “we will disrespect you if you disrespect us”, a comment that underscored how heated the interactions became.
Observers say the clash highlights ongoing tensions within Parliament around procedures and respect for members’ roles. Parliamentary sitting resumed following the intervention of senior members, and there was no official announcement of sanctions or follow-up disciplinary measures at the time.
Vincent Ekow Assafuah currently serves as the MP for Old Tafo and is an active member of parliamentary committees, while the First Deputy Speaker continues to oversee sessions, ensuring lawmakers conduct debates according to established legislative rules.
