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Parliament’s leadership has introduced comprehensive security measures to protect the Right Honourable Speaker, Members of Parliament (MPs), and parliamentary staff. These new protocols, announced on Monday, October 21, in a statement by Deputy Marshall of Parliament, WG CDR Frederick Bawa (Rtd), are designed to ensure a secure and orderly environment during parliamentary sessions.
The statement calls for all MPs, staff, and press members to undergo thorough screening before entering the Chamber, reinforcing Parliament’s security apparatus. Every individual entering the premises will be properly vetted to ensure safety.
A key policy change restricts bodyguards from entering the Chamber with MPs. While many MPs rely on personal security, they are expected to comply with this regulation in the interest of the collective good.
Additionally, strict parking restrictions will be enforced around the Grand Arena to prevent congestion and enhance security. Vehicles will only be allowed to park in designated areas, with VIPs required to use specific drop-off points at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). The Ghana Police Service will be present to manage traffic and ensure smooth access.
MPs will also need to wear their parliamentary identification tags at all times to make it easier for security personnel to identify authorized individuals within the Chamber and its surroundings. Access to the Chamber will open at 08:00 hours, giving MPs and staff time to pass through security screening before the day’s proceedings begin.
Leadership has emphasized the need for punctuality and cooperation with security officials to avoid delays. Access to the public gallery will also be restricted until further notice to maintain a secure and focused environment.
These measures come ahead of a highly anticipated parliamentary sitting on Tuesday. Public interest has been high following the Speaker’s recent controversial ruling, which left the National Democratic Congress (NDC) with 136 seats, making them the majority, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) holds 135 seats.
On October 17, the Speaker declared four seats vacant after Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson invoked Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution, questioning the occupancy of MPs who had declared their intention to contest as Independent Candidates or remain with the NPP. However, the Supreme Court intervened on October 18, following a suit by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, staying the Speaker’s ruling and allowing the affected MPs to continue their duties until a final decision is made.
This situation has sparked a constitutional debate over the balance of power in Parliament and the judiciary’s role in parliamentary decisions.
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