Speaker lifts suspension of 4 MPs after bi-partisan appeal

Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament of Ghana has lifted the suspension of four Members of Parliament after receiving a bi-partisan appeal from both the Majority and Minority caucuses.

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

However, in a statement on the parliamentary floor today, Speaker Bagbin noted, “They demonstrated and assured me of their full support for both me and the deputy speakers to ensure effective and efficient parliamentary operations in Ghana. I am satisfied with not only their statement but also their conduct.”

He continued, “I will, therefore, lift the suspension of the four MPs who I considered to be involved in the disorderly conduct that amounted to contempt.”

This decision came after leaders from both sides of the House made appeals for the suspension to be lifted to restore harmony and cooperation within Parliament.

The appeal, spearheaded by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and backed by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, emphasized the need for unity and constructive dialogue in parliamentary processes.

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

“Mr. Speaker, I take full responsibility as the leader of my side for all actions that transpired. I therefore respectfully request that you, in light of the assurances given, reconsider the decision communicated to the House, along with any subsequent actions,” he stated.

The vetting session, which saw heated exchanges and disruptions, led the Speaker to establish a special committee to investigate the events. As a result, four MPs from both sides were suspended.

The suspended MPs include the two chief Whips—Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor (Minority) and Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Majority)—as well as Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaib.

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I take full responsibility for vetting Chaos -Afenyo-Markin to Speaker

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has publicly taken full responsibility for the chaos that unfolded during the vetting of ministerial nominees last week.

On February 4, 2025, during a speech in Parliament, Afenyo-Markin acknowledged the disruptions, which raised concerns among the public. He appealed to Speaker Alban Bagbin to reconsider the consequences of the incident.

This appeal marks a shift from the minority’s initial position that the Speaker had acted beyond the Standing Orders of the House.

“Mr. Speaker, I take full responsibility as a leader on my side for all actions that occurred. I therefore respectfully request that you reconsider the decision you communicated to the House, along with any consequential matters,” he said.

Meanwhile, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga called for a more conciliatory approach to address the aftermath of the disruptions.

The vetting session, marked by heated exchanges and disturbances, prompted the Speaker to set up a special committee to investigate the matter. In addition, four MPs from both sides were suspended as a result of the altercation.

The suspended MPs include Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli, and Jerry Ahmed Shaib.