The Minority Caucus in Parliament has slammed the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, for suspending three Members of Parliament (MPs) from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to the Caucus, led by Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the action was an overreach of parliamentary authority and a selective application of justice.
The MPs affected by the suspension include Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli (Gushegu), and Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe). Additionally, Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor was also suspended following a violent altercation during a sitting of Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday evening.
Reacting to the development in a press statement dated January 31, 2025, the Minority expressed deep concern over what they termed a disproportionate disciplinary measure. They argued that the Speaker’s decision undermines the principles of fairness and impartiality that should govern parliamentary proceedings.
“We categorically reject the suspension of three MPs and demand an immediate reversal of this politically charged decision. If this unjustifiable action, it will set a precedent where the Speaker becomes an unchecked authority, weaponising disciplinary measures against those who do not align with his preferred political narratives.”
The Caucus urged the Speaker to exercise his authority with greater restraint and to ensure that disciplinary actions are guided by equity and due process. They also appealed for dialogue and reconciliation to maintain the integrity and decorum of Parliament.
By: Ekow Annan/newsalertgh.com
