In reaction to the continuing constitutional debate over the status of four parliamentary seats, Parliament has implemented strict security measures for all activities beginning Tuesday, October 22.
The steps are intended to protect the Speaker, Members of Parliament, and staff during this delicate time, according to a news release signed by retired Deputy Marshall of Parliament Frederick Bawa.
The press release was issued in response to recent political and judicial events in which Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson questioned the legitimacy of four parliamentary seats by using Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution.
On October 17, the Speaker announced that the seats were vacant; however, on October 18, the Supreme Court stepped in, overturning the order and permitting the impacted Members of Parliament to remain in office until a final resolution was reached.
Parliament has made the decision to strengthen security procedures in light of this circumstance.
Before entering the Chamber, all MPs, employees, and press representatives will go through a rigorous vetting process, the statement said.
Additionally, during the proceedings, MPs’ bodyguards will not be allowed inside the Chamber.
This action is perceived as an attempt to keep things in order and avoid any possible disturbances during the upcoming contentious sessions.
MPs must utilize designated drop-off zones within the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) boundaries, while parking surrounding the Grand Arena is restricted as part of additional security measures.MPs and their cars will be guided to the proper locations by the Ghana Police Service.
Parliamentary identification tags must be worn by MPs in order to facilitate quick verification and access to the chamber would begin at 8am.
Additionally, the public gallery has been closed until further notice, making it impossible for members of the public to physically attend parliamentary proceedings.
The goal of this and other measures is to defuse any tensions that might develop during this constitutional standoff.
In order to guarantee the seamless and safe conduct of parliamentary activity, the statement urged all MPs and staff to abide by the new rules, “respectfully counting on the cooperation of all.”
As the country waits for more information regarding the constitutional issues in Parliament, these increased security measures are crucial.
It is anticipated that these limitations will contribute to the preservation of peace and order in the legislative body given the increased public interest in the issue.
