Tensions flared in Parliament on Thursday as the Minority staged a dramatic walkout in protest against what they described as an “insensitive” move by the Majority to declare the Akwatia parliamentary seat vacant.

The walkout followed a submission from the Majority side calling for the Speaker to initiate processes to officially declare the seat vacant.

The Akwatia seat has been at the centre of legal and political contention in recent months.

Deputy Minority Leader, Madam Patricia Appiagyei, criticised the timing and tone of the call, describing it as a deliberate provocation and an affront to ongoing legal processes.

She insisted that the matter was still under judicial consideration and that raising it on the floor of Parliament was not only premature but also disrespectful to democratic procedure.

“The discussion today by the Majority, seeking to have the Akwatia seat declared vacant, is not only insensitive but also undermines the rule of law,” Madam Appaigyei said before leading her colleagues out of the chamber.

The walkout drew attention to deepening tensions between the two sides of the House, particularly over parliamentary representation and respect for due process.

The Speaker is yet to make a formal ruling on the matter.