Anyimadu-Antwi Explains Why He Recused Himself from Vetting Chaos Committee, Says Hearing Was Meant to Be In-Camera

Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Vice Chair of the Special Committee investigating the vetting chaos, has provided an explanation for his decision to recuse himself from the Committee’s hearing on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. Anyimadu-Antwi, who represents Asante Akim Central in Parliament, was initially part of the group questioning witnesses at the Committee’s hearing, but stepped away after receiving a directive from Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the leader of the Minority Caucus.

In an exclusive interview with JoyNews on February 5, 2025, Anyimadu-Antwi shed light on the reasons behind his withdrawal from the hearing. He clarified that the Committee’s proceedings were intended to be held in-camera, meaning they were not supposed to be open to the public. According to him, the Minority leadership informed him that the hearing should remain private and not take place in front of the public eye. As a result, Anyimadu-Antwi followed the advice given to him and communicated his decision to step back from the proceedings to the Chair of the Committee.

“I was told not to be part of what we were doing because we were not supposed to go public with the committee work,” he explained. “I received a text message from my leadership, and after listening to their guidance, I returned to inform the Chair that I needed to recuse myself due to one or two reasons.” His decision reflects his commitment to adhere to the instructions of his leadership and to respect the integrity of the Committee’s processes, which had been planned to remain confidential.

The Special Committee, established by Speaker Alban Bagbin, was formed to investigate the chaotic events that took place on January 30, 2025, during the vetting of certain individuals. The incident sparked tensions between the Majority and the Minority in Parliament, leading to a physical altercation and the destruction of equipment. The Committee is tasked with probing the details of this conflict and examining the factors that contributed to the disruption of the vetting process.

During the first session of the hearing on February 5, 2025, seven Majority Members of Parliament, including the Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and the Clerk to the Appointments Committee, appeared as witnesses to provide their accounts of the events. However, the hearing was disrupted when Anyimadu-Antwi recused himself, leading to the suspension of the proceedings. The Committee has yet to announce a new date for the continuation of the hearing, and the indefinite adjournment has left many awaiting further updates on the investigation.

The investigation is expected to delve into the events of January 30, when a clash between the Minority and Majority over the timing of the vetting led to disruptions in Parliament. The altercation reportedly resulted in the destruction of valuable equipment, raising concerns about the conduct of the vetting process and the tensions within Parliament. The Committee has a ten-day deadline to present its findings and recommendations regarding the matter.

In his interview, Anyimadu-Antwi emphasized the importance of maintaining confidentiality in Committee hearings. The decision to hold the proceedings in-camera is a common practice in many parliamentary investigations to protect the integrity of the process and allow for candid discussions without the pressure of public scrutiny. He also noted that his recusal was in line with the principle of respecting the authority of the Minority leadership, which plays a crucial role in guiding the direction of the Committee’s work.

The Special Committee, chaired by Ho West MP Emmanuel Bedzrah, consists of several members, including Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui, Abena Osei Asare, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, and Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng. These members are tasked with gathering information, questioning witnesses, and compiling a report to address the issues that arose during the vetting chaos.

To further engage the public in the investigation, the Committee has established a WhatsApp platform to collect information and feedback from citizens. This platform allows the public to share their insights and concerns regarding the vetting process, helping the Committee to form a more comprehensive understanding of the events that unfolded.

As the investigation continues, all eyes will be on the Special Committee to determine whether it can provide a clear and detailed account of the events surrounding the vetting chaos. The outcome of the inquiry may have significant implications for parliamentary procedures and the way in which future vetting processes are conducted in Ghana.