‘He’s innocent until proven guilty’ – Agalga says Parliament united on Kwame Frimpong’s rights

Majority Leader James Agalga says Parliament is united on protecting detained Asante Akyem North MP Ohene Kwame Frimpong’s rights, insisting he must be presumed innocent.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, Agalga rejected suggestions that Parliament could declare the MP’s seat vacant while he faces extradition proceedings in the Netherlands.

“He’s innocent until proven guilty. Then there’s unanimity in Parliament that we must respect that principle.”

Asked whether Frimpong’s seat would be declared vacant, he was emphatic.

“No, we can’t do that. He’s not been convicted. If you declare the seat vacant and the courts clear him, what happens?”

Agalga said Parliament had a duty to respect its colleague’s rights throughout the proceedings.

“Yes, we have to respect his rights. To do otherwise would violate his rights. His right to innocence, the presumption of innocence, is well enshrined in our constitution.”

Frimpong was arrested at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport on May 10, 2026, after arriving from Ghana. His detention followed a US extradition request linked to allegations of romance scams and money laundering.

He remains in Dutch custody after an initial bail application and an appeal failed. His extradition hearing is scheduled for November 18, 2026, according to Majority Chief Whip Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor.

Parliament has engaged Ghana’s mission in The Hague, and Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed consular support, including a visit to the detainee.

Agalga said he had received a formal briefing. However, he acknowledged that he did not know the precise details of the alleged scam.

“I do not know the actual details. In fact, when the pressures of work ease a bit, I intend to pay him a visit.”

He said the visit would help him obtain firsthand information about the case.

Asked about official support, Agalga said Ghana’s mission in Brussels was assisting the MP and had been supportive. He welcomed that intervention.

“For me, that is a step in the right direction. So we wish our colleague well.”