In a decisive move to bolster security within Parliament, the leadership has announced a series of comprehensive measures aimed at protecting the Right Honourable Speaker, Members of Parliament (MPs), and parliamentary staff.
The new protocols, outlined in a statement signed by the Deputy Marshall of Parliament, WG CDR Frederick Bawa (Rtd) on Monday, October 21, have been designed to ensure a secure and orderly environment during parliamentary sessions.
The statement urged all MPs to comply with the enhanced security procedures, which require that they, along with staff and members of the press, undergo thorough screening before being granted entry into the Chamber.
This measure is intended to reinforce the Parliament’s security apparatus, ensuring that every individual entering the premises is properly vetted.
In a significant policy change, bodyguards accompanying MPs will no longer be permitted to enter the Chamber.
MPs, many of whom rely on their personal security detail, are now expected to adhere to this regulation for the greater good.
Outside the Chamber, strict parking restrictions will be enforced to prevent congestion and enhance security around the Grand Arena. Vehicles will not be allowed to park in the area, limiting access to only designated zones. To ensure smooth traffic flow, VIPs will be required to use specific drop-off points within the precincts of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC).
The Ghana Police Service will be on-site to direct drivers and ensure that drop-offs proceed without incident. This new arrangement aims to streamline access to the premises while maintaining a secure perimeter around the building.
Another critical aspect of the new security measures is the requirement for MPs to wear their parliamentary identification tags at all times. This initiative is designed to make it easier for security personnel to identify authorized individuals within the Chamber and surrounding areas.
Access to the Chamber will officially begin at 08:00 hours, allowing MPs and staff ample time to pass through security screening before the start of the day’s proceedings.
The leadership has stressed that punctuality and cooperation with security officials will be essential to avoid delays.
Additionally, in an effort to maintain a secure and focused environment, access to the public gallery will be restricted until further notice.
The new security measures come ahead of Tuesday’s anticipated parliamentary sitting. The looming session has generated significant public interest due to the Speaker’s controversial ruling, which left the NDC with 136 seats in Parliament, making them the majority, while the NPP holds 135.
The Speaker declared four seats vacant on October 17, after Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson invoked Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution and questioned the occupancy of four parliamentary seats after those MPs declared to contest as Independent Candidates or under the banner of the NPP.
But the Supreme Court intervened on October 18, after a suit filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin staying the ruling and allowing the affected MPs to continue their duties until a final decision is made.
The Speaker’s ruling and the subsequent Supreme Court’s intervention created a constitutional debate about the balance of power in Parliament and the proper role of the judiciary in parliamentary matters.
