Following a bipartisan appeal from both the Majority and Minority caucuses, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin lifted four Members of Parliament’s suspensions.
The suspension was first imposed after turbulent circumstances broke out during the vetting of ministry nominations, compelling the Speaker to initiate disciplinary action.
However, addressing on the floor today, the Speaker stated that, “They demonstrated and assured me of their complete support for me and the deputy speakers to ensure that we have an efficient and effective function in parliament in Ghana.” So I am satisfied with both the message and their behavior.
“And I will proceed to lift the suspension of the four members of parliament that I considered were involved in this disorderly conduct which amounted to contempt.“
Following appeals from leaders on both sides of the House, the decision was reversed in order to restore Parliamentary peace and cooperation.
The petition, spearheaded by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and endorsed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, emphasized the importance of unity and constructive engagement in parliamentary proceedings.
Mr Afenyo-Markin had already accepted responsibility for the disturbances and pleaded with the Speaker to reconsider his decision.
“Mr Speaker, as a leader on my side, I accept full responsibility for all activities taken. I will thus finish by inviting you, Mr Speaker, to consider a recession of the decision you announced to the house, as well as all subsequent items thereto,” he said.
Following the vetting session, which was marked by heated debates and disruptions, the Speaker formed a special committee to investigate the situation.
In addition, four MPs from both sides were suspended following the altercation.
The suspended MPs included the Minority and Majority caucuses’ chief whips, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor and Frank Annoh-Dompreh, as well as Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaib.