The Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has issued a stern warning against the deployment of military personnel for the upcoming 2024 general elections unless absolutely necessary. In his opening remarks at the third meeting of the fourth session of the eighth parliament, Speaker Bagbin stressed that the preservation of human life and happiness, rather than their destruction, is the foremost goal of a good government.
The Speaker also expressed concerns that the involvement of military personnel in previous elections had led to preventable incidents, rather than protecting the electorate.
This statement comes amid growing concerns about the potential use of military forces during the 2024 elections, following the tragic incident in the 2020 polls where some seven people were shot dead by military personnel.
The Speaker in his address also urged Parliamentarians to prioritize their duties and safeguard the rights and freedoms of citizens during this critical period.
Speaker Bagbin also revealed his engagement with the Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission, Media Commission, Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice and the National Commission on Civil Education to discuss ways in which Parliament can collaborate with them to create a conducive environment for the elections.
He also noted that he plans to engage other key stakeholders, including the President, Council of State, National Security Council, flag bearers and national executives of political parties, security services, clergy, and notable civil society leaders.
