In a landmark ruling that underscores the authority and dignity of Ghana’s Parliament, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin Sumana has officially lifted the suspension of four Members of Parliament (MPs) who were found guilty of disorderly conduct.
Speaking in the chamber, the Speaker reaffirmed the supreme authority of Parliament and the necessity of upholding discipline while ensuring the House functions efficiently.
Speaker Bagbin opened his statement by emphasizing the unique power that Parliament holds within Ghana’s democratic system.
He reminded members that Parliament is often referred to as “a house of might and majesty”, with might symbolizing the “sovereignty of all the people in the country”, and majesty representing the presence of the King or Queen in parliamentary affairs.
“Therefore, there can be no power higher than that of Parliament,” he asserted, reinforcing the supremacy of the legislative arm of government.
As the head of Parliament, the Speaker plays a crucial role in “exercising your powers and creating an environment for you to be able to perform your function.” He underscored his responsibility to ensure that MPs abide by the rules of the House, maintaining order and discipline in parliamentary proceedings.
Upholding Discipline Amid Suspension
The Speaker acknowledged that disagreements are part of the democratic process, and members are permitted to challenge his rulings. However, he noted that the “rules are very clear as to what they refer to as disorder or contempt of Parliament.” Stating;
“For me to preserve and uphold that might, majesty, and dignity of the House, I should not shed any responsibility in applying and enforcing the rules. And that was exactly what I did.”
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin Sumana Speaker of Parliament
Despite the disciplinary action, he stressed that his ruling was not personal and that he maintains cordial relationships with members across the political divide. He further illustrated his approach to discipline by drawing an analogy to parenting. He illustrated;
“As a father, when your son commits an offense, you don’t punish the son to the extent that you break his or her leg. That becomes a big problem for you, the father.”
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin Sumana Speaker of Parliament
This statement highlighted his belief in balancing justice with mercy while ensuring that order is maintained.
Speaker’s Suspension Lifted
Following the suspension, the Speaker noted that the affected MPs and their respective caucus leaders had apologized for their actions. He reiterated;
“I listened to the apology, and here it was repeated by the Minority Leader for and on behalf of the members of the caucus and supported by the Majority Leader – 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 functioning Parliament in Ghana.”
“So, I am satisfied not just with the statement but also their conduct. And I will proceed to lift the suspension of the four Members of Parliament that I considered were involved in disorderly conduct which amounted to contempt.”
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin Sumana Speaker of Parliament
Speaker Bagbin provided legal and procedural clarity on why he exercised his authority to impose the suspension. He explained;
“The rules are very clear, and I did refer to them and stated clearly that because we are in the transitional mood, we will not be able to put committees in place, including that of the Privileges and Immunities Committee.”
“Understanding Orders grant me the power and authority to do what I did. And clearly, the jurisprudence is very clear that when contempt is committed in first-year career, you don’t proceed to set up another committee or court or whatever to investigate and submit a report.”
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin Sumana Speaker of Parliament
Therefore, he exercised his authority to directly handle the matter within Parliament instead of referring it to an external committee. He emphasized;
“My very good Honorable Member, you are at liberty. Even after this, to proceed anywhere. I have no problem meeting you in court—that’s where I was farming for many years before I became a Member of Parliament.”
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin Sumana Speaker of Parliament
With this statement, he reaffirmed his confidence in the legal system and his commitment to upholding justice.
In his final declaration, he announced the immediate lifting of the suspension. He declared; “So, I have lifted the suspension order, and I do so instantly, and it takes effect immediately.”
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin’s ruling marks a significant moment in Ghana’s parliamentary history, reaffirming the power, majesty, and discipline of Parliament.
While his decision to suspend the four MPs was in line with parliamentary rules, he also demonstrated leadership by listening to their apologies, recognizing their commitment to order, and lifting their suspension.
His statement serves as a reminder that in a democratic system, rules and procedures must be respected, but fairness and reconciliation are equally important in maintaining a functional and effective legislative body.
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