Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has reaffirmed the caucus’s commitment to ensuring that Akwatia MP Ernest Yaw Kumi adheres to legal requirements following his conviction for contempt by the Koforidua High Court.
This conviction stemmed from Kumi’s decision to disregard an interim injunction that barred him from being sworn in as a legislator.
Presiding Judge Justice Senyo Amedahe not only issued the conviction but also a bench warrant for Kumi’s arrest after he failed to appear for sentencing.
The court had earlier ruled that Kumi should not take the oath of office until a related legal matter was resolved; however, he proceeded with the swearing-in despite the directive.
The ruling highlighted substantial evidence of willful defiance, leading the judge to conclude that Kumi’s actions amounted to contempt.
An official letter from the Minority Caucus explaining Kumi’s absence from the hearing was dismissed, reinforcing the court’s stance that he had disregarded its authority.
With the bench warrant now in effect, relevant authorities are expected to carry out the arrest.
Addressing the media on February 19, Afenyo-Markin described the court’s directive as a concern for the Minority Caucus, expressing dissatisfaction with the ruling.
“I am aware of the Koforidua High Court decision. We are yet to procure the court ruling and the orders of the court. The lawyers are going to brief the caucus, and we will come out with our position on the matter. Meanwhile, all necessary steps will be taken to ensure that our colleague is law-abiding and that the right thing is done.
“But we have to say that we are dissatisfied with the approach and we think that he has been treated unfairly. We will come out fully with our position when we receive full briefing from our lawyers,” he stated.