The fallout from the recent ministerial vetting process in Ghana's Parliament has taken a serious turn, with four Members of Parliament (MPs) suspended over misconduct during the proceedings. The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has taken swift action, suspending the MPs for two weeks and constituting a seven-member committee to investigate the disorder.
This latest development has sparked widespread public debate, with many questioning the conduct of elected officials and the integrity of parliamentary proceedings.
What Led to the Suspension of the MPs?
The suspended MPs include:
✅ Rockson Nelson Dafeamakpor – Majority Chief Whip and MP for South Dayi
✅ Frank Annor-Dompreh – Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri
✅ Alhassan Sulemana Tampuuli – MP for Gushiegu
✅ Jerry Ahmed Shaib – MP for Weija-Gbawe
According to Speaker Bagbin, the behavior of these MPs during the vetting of ministerial nominees was unruly and unacceptable, bringing the image of Parliament into disrepute. Their actions reportedly led to violent confrontations, disrupting what was meant to be a formal and professional parliamentary process.
The Speaker emphasized that disciplinary measures were necessary to restore the credibility of the legislative body.
Seven-Member Committee to Investigate Vetting Chaos
To ensure a full-scale investigation, a special seven-member committee has been formed, with a 10-day deadline to submit a report on the incident.
Members of the Investigative Committee:
🟢 Emmanuel Bedzrah (MP for Ho West) – Chairperson
🟢 Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi (MP for Asante Akim Central)
🟢 Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui (MP for Awutu Senya West)
🟢 Abena Osei Asare (MP for Atiwa East)
🟢 Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings (MP for Klottey Korle)
🟢 Vincent Oppong Asamoah (MP for Dormaa West)
🟢 Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng (MP for Lawra)
This committee is tasked with identifying all MPs involved in the misconduct and recommending disciplinary actions based on their findings.
🚨 Key Point: MPs found guilty could face further sanctions, as Parliament seeks to set a precedent for acceptable behavior.
MPs to Pay for Damages – No Public Funds to Be Used
One of the most notable directives issued by the Speaker is that no public funds will be used to repair any damages caused by the chaos.
🔴 Instead, MPs responsible for the damage will be surcharged, with deductions made from their salaries if necessary.
Additionally, the Speaker has instructed the Clerk-to-Parliament to report the incident to the Ghana Police Service for a full criminal investigation into the matter. This could lead to potential legal consequences for those involved.
Speaker Bagbin: ‘I Am Shocked and Disappointed’
Expressing his disappointment, Speaker Bagbin stated that he was shocked and scandalized by the behavior of the MPs.
💬 “What should have been a solemn exercise in parliamentary scrutiny degenerated into an appalling display of chaos and lawlessness, bringing the House into disrepute before the entire world.”
His statement reflects growing public frustration with repeated incidents of misconduct among MPs, further eroding trust in Parliament.
Calls for Reform: Speaker Pushes for Changes in Vetting Process
In response to the incident, the Speaker has called for an immediate reconstitution of the Appointments Committee to prevent future misconduct.
🔵 This includes revising the Standing Orders of Parliament to strengthen the vetting process and ensure better conduct among MPs.
Many Ghanaians are now calling for stricter enforcement of parliamentary rules, arguing that elected officials must set a better example for the nation.
Public Reaction: Can Parliament Regain Its Credibility?
The incident has sparked a national conversation about the state of Ghana’s democracy and the role of MPs in upholding democratic principles.
🔹 Some citizens believe that the suspensions and investigation are necessary steps to restore order and discipline in Parliament.
🔹 Others argue that harsher penalties should be imposed to prevent such incidents from happening again.
With public trust in Parliament already at an all-time low, the outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the future of parliamentary discipline in Ghana.
Final Thoughts: Will This Be a Turning Point for Ghana’s Parliament?
The chaos at the ministerial vetting process has once again exposed deep flaws in parliamentary discipline and leadership. Speaker Bagbin’s decision to suspend MPs, launch an investigation, and demand financial accountability is a bold step toward restoring credibility.
However, the real question remains: Will Parliament learn from this and implement lasting reforms?
👉 What are your thoughts on this issue? Should the MPs face stricter penalties? Share your opinion in the comments!
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