The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has strongly condemned the suspension of three New Patriotic Party (NPP) legislators by Speaker Alban S.K. Bagbin.
The suspended MPs—Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli (Gushegu), and Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe)—were involved in a violent clash during a Parliamentary Appointments Committee session on January 30, 2025, which also led to the suspension of Majority Chief Whip, Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor.
In a statement released on January 31, 2025, the Minority criticised the Speaker’s decision, calling it an overreach of parliamentary power and an example of selective justice.
They argued that the Speaker’s ruling was aimed at intimidating lawmakers and stifling opposing views in Parliament.
The Minority also claimed that the unrest was a result of growing frustration with procedural unfairness, particularly accusing the Majority of pushing decisions through without proper consultation.
The Minority emphasised that parliamentary debates should be vigorous and robust, pointing out that the disruptions and property damage that occurred were unintended consequences of tensions within the committee.
They further argued that the perceived partiality of the Appointments Committee Chair contributed to the unrest, as the Majority’s actions were seen as one-sided.
This incident highlights the deepening divisions in Parliament, with both sides accusing each other of undermining the democratic process and stifling debate.
The Minority’s strong stance on the suspension has sparked further discussion about parliamentary conduct and the balance of power in the House.