The Minority Caucus of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Parliament has strongly opposed the suspension of three of its Members of Parliament by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban S.K. Bagbin. The suspended MPs—Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Hon. Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli (Gushegu), and Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe)—were penalized following disruptions during the vetting of ministerial nominees.
In a statement, the Minority condemned the Speaker’s decision, calling it an abuse of parliamentary authority, selective justice, and a threat to democracy. They argued that the Speaker’s actions contradicted Parliament’s role as a platform for open debate and fair discussion.
The Minority clarified that the chaos during the vetting was not a deliberate attempt to disrupt proceedings but rather a reaction to the Majority’s refusal to ensure fairness and consensus. They claimed tensions arose due to the Majority’s handling of the process, bypassing due process and making unilateral decisions without proper debate.
They also criticized the Chairman of the Appointments Committee for lacking impartiality, which they believe contributed to the disorder. Instead of addressing the root causes of the disturbances, the Speaker chose to unfairly suspend the three MPs.
The NPP Minority further argued that Speaker Bagbin’s decision violated parliamentary procedures and constitutional rights, citing that:
– The Speaker did not follow the proper disciplinary procedures outlined in Standing Orders 130(a) and (b).
– The suspended MPs were not given the chance to defend themselves, as required under Article 19(1) of the Constitution.
– Internal disciplinary procedures were not utilized before resorting to suspension.
The Minority warned that this action sets a dangerous precedent where the Speaker could punish MPs at his discretion, bypassing established parliamentary rules.
They also accused the Speaker of applying double standards based on political affiliation, pointing out that similar or worse incidents had occurred under his leadership without any suspensions.
“This decision seems politically motivated, aiming to intimidate certain MPs and silence opposition voices in Parliament,” the statement concluded.
