The Minority Caucus of Parliament has condemned the conduct of Ms. Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission against Frank Annoh-Dompreh, describing her actions as egregious contempt of Parliament.
The Caucus is calling for decisive sanctions, citing her alleged attempt to undermine the authority of the Minority Chief Whip and her use of what it called unconscionable language against a senior Member of Parliament.
The incident in question reportedly occurred on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, when Ms. Hardcastle allegedly directed disparaging remarks toward Frank Annoh-Dompreh, in relation to his parliamentary duties.
Ms. Hardcastle reportedly described Annoh-Dompreh’s conduct ahead of Dr Edward Omane Boamah as “silly”.
The matter was subsequently raised on the floor of Parliament by Annoh-Dompreh, prompting a moment of bipartisan unity by members from both sides of the House.
Ms. Hardcastle’s actions were described as a blatant display of disrespect towards the Legislature.
In a January 29 statement, the Minority Caucus referenced the landmark case of K. T. Hammond v. William Ampem-Darko, which established that no individual, regardless of status, has the authority to verbally or physically assault a Member of Parliament for their actions within the scope of their duties.
The Caucus emphasised that Parliament’s historical commitment to protecting its members’ privileges and dignity must not waver.
The Minority Caucus outlined specific actions they believe are necessary to uphold the sanctity of Parliament and deter future misconduct.
The caucus is demanding that “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 offence.”