Bagbin Rescinds Suspension of Four MPs

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has decided to lift the suspension imposed on four Members of Parliament (MPs), who had been barred from attending parliamentary proceedings after a heated disagreement during a vetting session on Thursday, January 30, 2025. This move came after a formal appeal by Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who urged the Speaker to reconsider the disciplinary action taken against the MPs involved. The appeal was supported by Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, signaling a collective desire to resolve the issue and restore normalcy to Parliament.

The MPs who had been suspended included Rockson Nelson Dafeamakpor, the Majority Chief Whip and MP for South Dayi; Frank Annor-Dompreh, the Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri; Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli, the MP for Gushiegu; and Jerry Ahmed Shaib, the MP for Weija-Gbawe. Their suspension followed a tense altercation that erupted during the vetting process for ministerial appointments, where disagreements over parliamentary procedures led to a breakdown in order.

The confrontation escalated when MPs from both sides of the House became involved in a disagreement over the handling of the vetting process. Speaker Bagbin, in an effort to restore order and maintain discipline, made the decision to suspend the four MPs, removing them from proceedings. However, this move quickly sparked a wave of controversy, with some lawmakers raising concerns about the potential negative impact of the suspension on the smooth running of parliamentary business. Both the Minority and Majority members expressed reservations about the implications for legislative activities, particularly at a time when important ministerial nominations were under review.

Recognizing the growing tension, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin took to the floor of the House to formally request that the Speaker lift the suspension. Afenyo-Markin emphasized the need for Parliament to maintain its focus on its primary responsibilities, including the critical review of ministerial appointments. He argued that the suspension of the MPs, particularly in the midst of such an important process, would create unnecessary divisions and disrupt the work of Parliament. His appeal was echoed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, who also highlighted the importance of unity and the continuation of parliamentary business without further delay.

In response to these appeals, Speaker Bagbin reviewed the situation and ultimately decided to reverse his earlier decision. Acknowledging the concerns raised by both leaders, the Speaker emphasized the necessity of ensuring that Parliament’s operations remained uninterrupted. He agreed with the sentiment that a united approach was needed, especially given the ongoing work related to the vetting and confirmation of key ministerial nominees. Bagbin’s decision to lift the suspension reflects a recognition of the broader need for cooperation and stability within the legislative process.

With the suspension lifted, the four MPs are now permitted to resume their duties in Parliament. The decision is expected to bring an end to the discord caused by the suspension and restore a sense of normalcy to the legislative proceedings. The return of these MPs to Parliament is seen as a step towards healing the divisions that had emerged, allowing the House to proceed with the important work at hand without further distractions.

The Speaker’s move has been widely interpreted as an effort to reinforce the principles of fairness and cooperation within the parliamentary system. By reconsidering his initial decision, Speaker Bagbin has demonstrated his willingness to listen to the concerns of the House and prioritize the smooth functioning of Parliament. The lifting of the suspension also signals the Speaker’s commitment to maintaining order while being responsive to the needs of MPs and the larger political environment.

As the suspended MPs return to their roles, Parliament can now continue with its activities, particularly the review of ministerial appointments, which has become a focal point of political discourse. The Speaker’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing internal conflicts and ensuring that legislative work progresses effectively.