The Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa constituency, KT Hammond, has responded to a viral video capturing a parliamentary incident on December 22, 2023, where he appeared to fend off Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh.
In a press conference at his residence, K.T. Hammond addressed the video, expressing concern over the consistent misinterpretation of his statements by the media.
K.T. Hammond clarified that he was summoned into the chamber by Annoh-Dompreh for discussions and voting on the appointment of judges.
Due to his connection with one of the judges, a schoolmate from the University of Ghana, he sought to participate in the deliberations.
While making his submissions, Annoh-Dompreh attempted to draw his attention, presumably due to time constraints.
K.T. Hammond asserted that his gestures were aimed at requesting more time to articulate his point amid interruptions from the Nsawam-Adoagyir MP.
“I only made some gesticulations towards him to allow me to make my point regardless of the time constraints.
Parliament had spent the whole day discussing other issues, so why was I distracted from making my point to wind up the business of the day?” questioned Hammond.
Refuting claims of violence, Hammond emphasized his non-violent history and his close relationship with Hon. Annoh-Dompreh, stating, “I never slapped him. Why would I slap a colleague Member of Parliament? Have you seen me fighting anybody in Parliament as others did during voting for the Speaker of Parliament and other violent scenes in the house?”
K.T. Hammond, who has picked nomination forms for the upcoming Parliamentary primaries in his constituency, anticipates serving his 7th term if successful.
He acknowledged the competition from three other aspirants but expressed confidence in securing the party's nod based on his constituents' calls and his track record.
The legislator highlighted the impending departure of experienced MPs, including Joseph Osei-Owusu, Dan Botwe, Samuel Atta Akyea, and Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, who announced their decision not to contest in the upcoming Parliamentary primaries.
K.T. Hammond expressed concern about the potential void created in Parliament, emphasizing the valuable contributions of these seasoned legislators and the challenge of replacing their experience.
