In a bid to maintain order and ensure safety, Parliament has introduced stringent security measures effective Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
The move comes amidst escalating tensions and controversy surrounding the Speaker’s ruling on four parliamentary seats and the Supreme Court’s intervention.
New Security Protocols
According to a statement from the Deputy Marshal of Parliament, WG CDR Frederick Bawa (Rtd), all MPs, staff, and press will undergo thorough screening before entering the Chamber.
Notably, bodyguards of MPs will be barred from the Chamber, while vehicles will not be permitted to park around the Grand Arena.
To ensure smooth entry, MPs are advised to wear their parliamentary identification tags and access the Chamber from 8:00 AM.
The public will not be allowed into the public gallery until further notice.
The cooperation of all stakeholders is being sought to ensure the smooth functioning of the House.
Additional Restrictions
The Ghana Police Service will provide directions to designated drop-off zones within the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) precincts, where MPs will be dropped.
Background
The security measures follow a leaked chats from the opposition National Democratic Congress, NDC Minority Caucus, revealing plans to create chaos and defy Supreme Court orders.
The controversy surrounding Speaker Alban Bagbin’s ruling and the Supreme Court’s intervention has created uncertainty about Parliament’s balance of power.
However, Deputy Marshal of Parliament, Wg Cdr Frederick Bawa (Rtd), has appealed for cooperation from all stakeholders, emphasizing the measures’ importance in ensuring the safety and security of the Speaker, MPs, and staff.
BY Daniel Bampoe