Minority MPs walk out after Bagbin orders Abu Jinapor out of Parliament

The Minority caucus in Parliament staged a walkout on Tuesday, November 3, following a heated exchange between Speaker Alban Bagbin and Damongo MP Samuel Abu Jinapor over allegations that diplomatic passports were being sold for between $10,000 and $50,000.

The confrontation arose during a parliamentary debate on the issuance of diplomatic passports, which are granted on the authority of the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Contributing to the discussion, Mr Jinapor claimed to have evidence that diplomatic passports were being sold for amounts ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. He subsequently called for an investigation into the alleged transactions.

His remarks were challenged by Majority Leader James Agalga, who demanded that the Damongo MP provide evidence to support the claim or withdraw it.

Speaker Bagbin also directed Mr Jinapor to substantiate the allegation or retract his statement.

However, the MP stood by his claim, resulting in a tense exchange with the Speaker. Although he eventually withdrew the allegation after the prolonged confrontation, Mr Bagbin instructed the Marshal of Parliament to escort him out of the chamber, citing his failure to comply with the directive promptly.

The Speaker's decision prompted the Minority caucus to leave the chamber in solidarity with Mr Jinapor.