In an effort to enhance security within Parliament, leadership has introduced a series of comprehensive 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 signed by Deputy Marshall WG CDR Frederick Bawa (Rtd), are designed to ensure a safe and organized environment during sessions.
Key Measures Introduced:
- Thorough Screening:
- All MPs, staff, and members of the press will undergo thorough security screening before entering the Chamber. This is aimed at reinforcing Parliament’s security systems and ensuring that only vetted individuals gain access.
- Bodyguard Restriction:
- In a notable policy shift, MPs will no longer be permitted to bring their bodyguards into the Chamber. Despite many MPs relying on personal security, this regulation has been enforced for the collective benefit of maintaining order.
- Parking and Drop-Off Arrangements:
- To reduce congestion and enhance security around the Grand Arena, parking will be restricted. VIPs will use designated drop-off points within the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC), with the Ghana Police Service directing traffic to ensure a smooth flow.
- Identification Requirement:
- MPs are required to wear their parliamentary identification tags at all times, enabling security personnel to quickly verify authorized individuals within the Chamber and its surrounding areas.
- Chamber Access Time:
- Access to the Chamber will officially open at 08:00 hours, allowing MPs and staff enough time for security screening ahead of parliamentary proceedings. Leadership emphasized the importance of punctuality to prevent delays.
- Public Gallery Closure:
- Access to the public gallery has been suspended until further notice to maintain a secure environment during parliamentary sessions.
Context of Security Heightening:
The enhanced security measures come in anticipation of Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting, which has generated widespread attention due to recent political developments. The Speaker’s controversial ruling on October 17 declared four parliamentary seats vacant, after Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson invoked Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution.
The article was used to challenge the eligibility of MPs who had either declared their intention to run as independent candidates or under the NPP’s banner.
As a result of the ruling, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held a majority of 136 seats, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held 135.
However, on October 18, the Supreme Court stayed the Speaker’s decision following a suit filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. The Court’s intervention allowed the affected MPs to continue their duties until a final resolution is made.
The Speaker’s ruling and the Supreme Court’s involvement have sparked intense constitutional debate surrounding the balance of power in Parliament and the judiciary’s role in parliamentary affairs.
The upcoming sitting is expected to provide further clarity on these issues and could have significant political implications.
These heightened security protocols are seen as critical steps in ensuring a smooth and safe parliamentary process amid the rising tensions.
