The recent suspension of four Members of Parliament, three from the minority side and one from the majority side, has sparked a protest within the legislative body. The MPs showed their solidarity by wearing black attire with red armbands during the fourth sitting of the House on Tuesday, February 4.
The suspended MPs, including the two Chief Whips, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor and Frank Annoh-Dompreh, as well as Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaib, were sanctioned for their involvement in the chaotic scenes that occurred during a sitting of the Appointments Committee of Parliament. Speaker Alban Bagbin took the decision to suspend them and set up an investigative committee to look into the matter.
However, the minority MPs believe that the Speaker acted arbitrarily and outside the Standing Orders of Parliament. They are calling for the decision to be rescinded, a fair hearing for the affected MPs, and for the investigative process to continue without interference.
In response to the protest, Parliament tightened security measures in the chamber to prevent the suspended MPs from gaining access. The minority MPs are determined to stand their ground and ensure that due process is followed in addressing the issue.
The situation remains tense as both sides of the aisle hold firm to their positions. The outcome of the investigation and the ultimate fate of the suspended MPs are yet to be determined. The controversy surrounding the incident has drawn attention to the need for accountability and transparency within the parliamentary process.
It is essential for all parties involved to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law in resolving this matter. The eyes of the nation are on Parliament as it navigates through this challenging period, seeking to restore order and integrity to its proceedings.