Frank Annoh-Dompreh
The Minority caucus has written to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, to raise concerns over what it described as a blatant disregard for established protocols in the engagement of Members of Parliament (MPs) by national security and intelligence agencies.
In a memorandum dated April 9, 2025, the Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, on behalf of the Minority Caucus Leadership, expressed dismay at the conduct of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), citing the Wednesday’s attempted arrest of Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, MP for Assin South and Ranking Member of Parliament’s Defence and Interior Committee.
Mr. Annoh-Dompreh recalled that the Speaker had previously issued “clear and unequivocal guidance” to ensure MPs are engaged through channels that respect their parliamentary privileges and constitutional protections, specifically those outlined in Articles 117 and 118 of the 1992 Constitution.
“You will recall your letter addressed to the NIB on 2nd April 2025, reiterating these established protocols,” the memorandum stated, referencing prior cases involving MP for Yagba-Kubori, Mustapha Ussif and MP for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng aka A-Plus, where proper procedures were emphasised.
Describing the incident involving Rev. Fordjour as a “forceful attempt” to arrest the MP at his residence, the Minority believes the move was a response to a recent press conference the MP addressed on behalf of the Minority Caucus—a matter they argue falls within his parliamentary duties.
“This clearly disregards the well-intended protocols established under your able leadership and enshrined in the Constitution,” the Minority indicated, warning that such actions not only flout constitutional protections but also endanger the principle of separation of powers.
The Minority urged the Speaker to take immediate steps to reaffirm the earlier directives and engage the heads of the relevant security agencies to prevent future violations.
“These actions undermine the authority of your office and the dignity of Parliament. We call on you to protect the sanctity of parliamentary work and ensure decorum in engagements with Members of Parliament,” the Minority concluded.
By Ernest Kofi Adu