Source: Kenneth Awotwe Darko

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has lifted the suspension of four Members of Parliament following a bi-partisan appeal from both the Majority and Minority caucuses.

The suspension was initially imposed after chaotic scenes erupted during the vetting of ministerial nominees, prompting the Speaker to take disciplinary action.

But speaking on the floor today, the Speaker indicated that, “They demonstrated and assured me of their total support to me and the deputy speakers to ensure that we have an efficient and an effective function in parliament in Ghana. So I am satisfied with not just the statement, but also their conduct.

Alban K. S Bagbin

“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.”

This followed after appeals from leaders on both sides of the House, for the the decision to be reversed to restore harmony and cooperation in Parliament.

The appeal, led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and supported by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, stressed the need for unity and constructive engagement in parliamentary proceedings.

Mr Afenyo-Markin had earlier taken responsibility for the disturbances and pleaded with the Speaker to reconsider his decision.

“Mr Speaker, I take full responsibility as a leader on my side, on all actions that took place. I will therefore conclude by inviting you, Mr Speaker, to in the circumstance and with assurance given, consider a recession of the decision you communicated to the house, as well as all consequential matters there too,” he stated.

The vetting session, which was marked by heated exchanges and disruptions, led to the Speaker establishing a special committee to investigate the matter.

Additionally, four MPs from both sides were suspended following the altercation.

The suspended MPs included the two chief Whips for both the Minority and Majority caucuses, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor and Frank Annoh-Dompreh, as well as Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaib.