Parliament has introduced stringent security measures for proceedings beginning Tuesday, October 22, 2024, in light of the ongoing constitutional dispute over the status of four parliamentary seats.
A press release signed by Wing Commander Frederick Bawa (Rtd.), Deputy Marshal of Parliament, outlined the steps to safeguard the Speaker, Members of Parliament (MPs), and parliamentary staff during this period.
These measures include a thorough screening of MPs, staff, and members of the press before entry into the Chamber. Additionally, bodyguards of MPs will not be permitted inside the Chamber.
MPs will also be required to use designated drop-off zones within the precincts of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC), with directions provided by the Ghana Police Service. Parking around the Grand Arena has been restricted.
MPs are expected to wear their parliamentary identification tags, and access to the Chamber will commence at 8:00 a.m. The public gallery has been temporarily closed, with no public access until further notice.
The statement concludes by calling for the cooperation of all parties involved, stating, “Respectfully counting on the cooperation of all,” to ensure that parliamentary business proceeds smoothly under the heightened security environment.
The introduction of these enhanced security protocols comes amid heightened political tensions, following NDC parliamentary leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s invocation of Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution, which questions the occupancy of the four parliamentary seats.
The Speaker declared the seats vacant on October 17, but the Supreme Court intervened on October 18, staying the ruling and allowing the affected MPs to continue their duties pending a final decision.
