Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has lifted the suspension of four Members of Parliament (MPs) who were sanctioned following a chaotic incident during the vetting of ministerial nominees on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
The Speaker’s decision came after appeals from both the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, who urged him to reconsider the sanctions. Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, February 4, Speaker Bagbin explained that his ruling was influenced by the MPs’ show of remorse for their actions.
“As a father, when your son commits an offence, you don’t punish your son to the extent of breaking his leg,” he stated. “I will proceed to lift the suspension of the four Members of Parliament. The MPs who were affected can now return to the chamber or join sittings.”
Despite the reinstatement, the Speaker stressed that investigations into the incident would continue. He directed the parliamentary leadership to cooperate with the committee overseeing the probe to ensure accountability.
The suspension, imposed following a heated altercation during the vetting process, had sparked concerns over legislative conduct and disciplinary measures in Parliament. With the MPs now back in the chamber, all eyes remain on the investigative committee’s findings and the possible repercussions for those involved.
