In light of a growing constitutional dispute involving the status of four parliamentary seats, Ghana’s Parliament has implemented heightened security measures. Beginning on Tuesday, October 22, these protocols are designed to safeguard the Speaker, Members of Parliament (MPs), and parliamentary staff during a time of increased political tension.

The Deputy Marshall of Parliament, Frederick Bawa (retired), issued a press release detailing these security changes. The decision comes on the heels of a controversy sparked by Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who cited Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution to challenge the legitimacy of four MPs. While the Speaker had declared these seats vacant on October 17, the Supreme Court intervened the next day, halting the declaration and allowing the affected MPs to retain their positions until a final ruling.

To maintain order and ensure safety during these tense parliamentary sessions, MPs, staff, and members of the press will be required to undergo thorough screening before entering the Chamber. Additionally, MPs’ bodyguards will not be permitted inside the Chamber itself, a move aimed at minimizing disruptions. Parking arrangements have also been modified, with the Ghana Police Service directing MPs to designated drop-off areas around the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The public gallery will remain closed until further notice.

These steps, along with requiring MPs to wear their identification tags for easier verification, are intended to prevent any escalation of tensions while Parliament continues to address the constitutional issues. As the nation closely follows these developments, the new security measures are seen as vital in maintaining order and ensuring a smooth legislative process during this critical period.

 

For more context on the legal implications, you can read about Article 97(1)(g) of Ghana’s Constitution. Additionally, the latest updates on the Supreme Court ruling can be followed on local news outlets.