The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, today ordered the Marshal of Parliament to eject the Member of Parliament (MP) for Damango, Samuel Abu Jinapor, from the Chamber following a disagreement over an allegation that diplomatic passports are being sold to individuals for money.
The incident occurred on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, when Mr Jinapor was contributing to the Business Statement presented by the Majority Leader, James Agalga.
During his contribution, the former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources raised concerns about allegations that diplomatic passports were being sold to individuals at a fee.
His comments, however, triggered an intervention by the Speaker, who asked him to withdraw the allegation if he could not provide evidence to substantiate it.
Mr Bagbin insisted that statements of that nature, particularly those suggesting wrongdoing involving the issuance of diplomatic passports, must be supported with credible evidence.
Mr Jinapor reportedly maintained his position and repeated the allegation despite the Speaker’s directive.
Following his refusal to withdraw the statement, the Speaker instructed the Marshal to escort the Damango MP out of the Chamber.
The directive resulted in a dramatic scene in Parliament, with members of the Minority Caucus expressing solidarity with their colleague.
In protest against the Speaker’s decision, Minority MPs, led by their Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, subsequently walked out of the Chamber.
The walkout was intended to demonstrate solidarity with Mr Jinapor following his removal from the proceedings.
The development disrupted the atmosphere in the House and added to tensions between the Majority and Minority sides during parliamentary business.
The controversy also brings renewed attention to parliamentary rules governing statements made by MPs, particularly allegations of misconduct against individuals or institutions.
Under parliamentary practice, MPs are expected to substantiate serious allegations made on the floor of the House or withdraw statements when directed by the Speaker.
The incident is expected to generate further debate over parliamentary procedure, the Speaker’s authority to maintain order in the Chamber and the rights of MPs to raise matters of public interest.
The allegation raised by Mr Jinapor concerns claims that diplomatic passports are being issued or sold to individuals in exchange for money.
Diplomatic passports are official travel documents issued to persons who qualify under the applicable laws and regulations, generally in connection with diplomatic responsibilities and official state duties.
Any allegation of improper issuance or sale of such passports raises questions about the integrity of the country’s diplomatic documentation system and the processes governing access to the documents.
By 1960news.com
