Credit: Kekeli K. Blamey
Parliament on Tuesday officially welcomed Ewurabena Aubynn as the new Member of Parliament (MP) for Ablekuma North, in a session marked by a walkout from the Minority side shortly before the swearing-in.
Tensions rose when an attempt was made by the Minority leadership to speak before the oath was administered. Their request was swiftly countered by the Majority side, which argued that such remarks should follow the formal process. Speaker Alban Bagbin sided with the Majority’s position, maintaining that the swearing-in must proceed without delay.
Unhappy with the ruling, the Minority staged a walkout. Before exiting the chamber, one of their leaders reportedly told the Speaker, “We cannot be part of this swearing-in,” signaling their objection to the proceedings.
Despite their absence, the ceremony went ahead. Ms. Aubynn was officially sworn in, taking over the parliamentary seat vacated following the resignation of the previous MP.
Her induction increases the number of seats held by the Majority in Parliament. Although the Minority has yet to offer detailed public reasons for their protest, some insiders believe it stems from ongoing political disagreements regarding the recent by-election and how it was conducted.
Observers say the walkout highlights lingering political divisions within Parliament but also reflects the Speaker’s determination to maintain procedural integrity and ensure smooth parliamentary operations.
