The Minority caucus in parliament is demanding exemplary sanctions on Ms Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, over what they describe as an intolerable breach of parliamentary privilege and contempt of the House.
Ms. Hardcastle is said to have attempted to direct the Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Frank Annor-Dompreh, on the execution of his parliamentary duties, coupled with her unconscionable description of a senior Member of Parliament as “silly”.
In a press release signed by minority leader; Alexander Afenyo Markin, her action constitutes an egregious assault on parliamentary authority that cannot go unchallenged.
“Such conduct strikes at the very foundation of our democracy and must be met with the full force of parliamentary sanctions.” it reads
They stated that Parliament must send a clear, unequivocal message that any attempt to undermine its authority or dignity will face severe consequences; Public officials must understand that interaction with Parliament and its Members demands the highest standards of decorum and respect.
“We expect that the appropriate sanctions under our Standing Orders, including fines, imprisonment, restriction from parliamentary precincts, and mandatory public apology, will be applied with appropriate severity to reflect the gravity of this offense,” it added
Furthermore, they noted that Rt Hon Speaker’s decision to personally hear representations from both parties on Thursday, 30th January 2025, given the current absence of a constituted Committee on Privileges and Immunities, underscores the gravity of this matter, anticipating that Friday’s report or ruling by the Speaker will send an unmistakable message of deterrence to all public officials and indeed any person who might contemplate similar contemptuous conduct in the future.
