Parliament on High Alert as Suspended MPs Barred from Chamber Heavy Security Presence in Parliament
There is heightened security in Ghana’s Parliament as officials move to enforce Speaker Alban Bagbin’s suspension of four lawmakers ahead of Tuesday’s sitting. The suspended MPs are being prevented from entering the chamber, with heavy police deployment and barricades at key access points.
Why Were the MPs Suspended?
The four legislators were suspended for two weeks following their involvement in a violent altercation during the vetting of ministerial nominees at the Appointments Committee on January 30. Speaker Bagbin was suspended as a disciplinary measure to maintain order in the House.
Minority Protests Speaker’s Decision
The Minority Caucus is fiercely opposing the suspensions, calling the move unilateral and undemocratic. Clad in red and black, Minority MPs gathered in Parliament, chanting patriotic songs and demanding an immediate reversal of Bagbin’s decision.
Implications for Parliamentary Proceedings
With Parliament scheduled to resume at noon, the ongoing standoff raises concerns about potential disruptions. The increased police presence signals the seriousness of the situation as leadership navigates the fallout from the controversial suspensions.