Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, has confirmed the arrest and detention of Asante Akyem North Member of Parliament, Ohene Kwame Frimpong, in Amsterdam, assuring the House that Parliament is working with government to ensure justice and due process.
Addressing Parliament at the opening of the second meeting of the second session, the Speaker described the development as unfortunate and pledged to keep the House updated on the matter.
“As you’ve been told, it’s regrettable that one of the members of this House is alleged to be on the wrong side of the law,” Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin stated.
He identified the MP involved as Ohene Kwame Frimpong, noting that Parliament was already engaging the government over the issue.
“What I can add is that Parliament is working with government to ensure justice is done in this matter,” he added.
The Speaker further disclosed that the House had received extensive updates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ghana’s diplomatic mission in the Netherlands regarding steps taken so far.
“I’m happy that voluminous information has been given you as to the steps that have been taken by the Minister of Foreign Affairs together with our mission in Holland,” he said.
Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin also expressed sympathy to the MP’s family and constituents over the development.
“Permit me on your behalf to convey the empathy of the House to members of his family and his constituents for this unfortunate development,” he noted.
He assured the House that efforts were being made to ensure the MP receives fair treatment under international law.
“We are with them and we are doing everything to make sure that he is accorded all the due respect, dignity and the opportunities available to all of us in international law,” he stated.
The Speaker, however, cautioned Members of Parliament against interfering in the matter, urging them to allow the appropriate authorities to handle the case.
“So please keep your calm and leave those who are involved,” he advised.
