Like all citizens, Members of Parliament (MPs) in Ghana are subject to the law and can face legal action if they violate it. Over the past four years, several MPs have had arrest warrants issued against them for various offences. Below are four MPs who have encountered legal troubles.
1. Francis-Xavier Sosu (MP for Madina)
Warrant Issued: November 29, 2021
Reason: Failure to appear in court after leading a protest.
Francis-Xavier Sosu faced an arrest warrant from the Kaneshie District Court for missing scheduled court hearings. He had organised a protest on October 25, 2021, over poor road conditions in his constituency. Although he cited parliamentary duties as his reason for not attending court, the judge dismissed his excuse and issued the warrant.
2. Stephen Amoah (MP for Nhyiaeso)
Warrant Issued: December 7, 2021
Reason: Traffic violations and failure to appear in court
Dr Stephen Amoah was arrested during a police crackdown on non-compliant V8 vehicle drivers near the Airport Bypass. Along with six others, he was taken into custody for breaching traffic laws. After failing to appear in court for the charges, the La Magistrate Court issued a warrant for his arrest.
3. Dorcas Affo Toffey (MP for Jomoro)
Warrant Issued: December 7, 2021
Reason: Failure to provide proof of renouncing Ivorian citizenship
The Sekondi High Court issued an arrest warrant against Dorcas Affo Toffey due to allegations that she held dual citizenship, which is prohibited for MPs under Ghanaian law. The court ordered her to submit proof of renouncing her Ivorian citizenship, but after failing to do so, a bench warrant was issued.
4. Ernest Yaw Kumi (MP for Akwatia)
Warrant Issued: February 19, 202
Reason: Contempt of court for defying a judicial order
The Koforidua High Court found Ernest Yaw Kumi guilty of contempt after he ignored a court directive barring him from taking the oath of office due to a legal dispute over his election. Despite the order, he proceeded with his swearing-in on January 7, 2025. His failure to appear for a court hearing on the matter led to the issuance of an arrest warrant.
These cases underscore the principle that no individual, regardless of their position, is above the law. Ghana’s legal system remains a key tool in ensuring accountability among public officials.
For more details, visit: Ghana MPs Facing Arrest Warrants
Source: Kass FM