The Parliament of Ghana has introduced enhanced security protocols for its sessions beginning Tuesday, October 22, 2024, aimed at safeguarding the precincts. This was revealed in an official notice issued by WG Cdr Frederick Bawa (Rtd), Deputy Marshal of Parliament.
The Speaker on October 17, declared four parliamentary seats vacant following a move by Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who invoked Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution. He raised concerns about the occupancy of these seats by MPs who had either decided to run as independent candidates or under the NPP’s banner.
However, on October 18, the Supreme Court stepped in after a lawsuit was filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, which temporarily halted the Speaker’s ruling. This allowed the affected MPs to continue their duties until a final decision is made.
The Speaker’s decision and the subsequent Supreme Court intervention have sparked a constitutional debate regarding the separation of powers in Parliament and the judiciary’s role in parliamentary affairs.
According to the statement, all Members of Parliament (MPs), staff, and press members will be subject to rigorous screening before accessing the chamber. It also highlights that MPs’ bodyguards will not be permitted in the chamber.
“Vehicles will NOT be allowed to park around the Grand Arena,” the notice indicated, stressing that MPs will be required to use designated drop-off points within the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) precincts.
In a notable step, the public gallery has been closed until further notice. “The Public will not be allowed access to the public gallery until further notice,” the statement read, underscoring the need for enhanced security during parliamentary proceedings.
Entry to the Chamber will commence from 8:00 AM, and MPs and staff are expected to wear their parliamentary identification tags. The Ghana Police Service will oversee directions and maintain order at the designated drop-off zones.
Kasapafmonline.com/Mary Asantewaa Buabeng