CSOs Support Speaker’s Decision to Suspend MPs Over Misconduct
The Ghana Parliamentary Monitoring Organizations Network (GPMON), a coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has expressed strong support for the swift action taken by the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, following the misconduct that occurred during the ministerial nominee vetting on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
In a statement signed by various CSOs, the group commended the Speaker’s decisive move to launch an investigation and hold those responsible accountable. “We believe that the Speaker’s prompt and firm action is vital in upholding the dignity and integrity of Parliament,” the statement read. The CSOs emphasized that such actions were necessary to restore discipline and ensure parliamentary proceedings are conducted with the decorum expected of elected representatives.
The statement further acknowledged the Speaker’s commitment to enforcing the Standing Orders of Parliament. “Strict enforcement of these rules is essential in halting the decline in parliamentary discipline, rebuilding public trust in democracy, and safeguarding the reputation of Ghana’s Parliament.”
As organizations dedicated to promoting parliamentary transparency and accountability, the CSOs reaffirmed their commitment to monitoring the outcome of the investigation and the actions taken thereafter. The seven-member committee established to probe the incident, alongside the ongoing police investigations, will be closely watched by the group.
The CSOs also recommended that severe punishments be imposed on those found guilty of misconduct, including surcharges to cover any damages caused. They stated that such measures would act as a deterrent and reinforce the principle that no one is above the law.
The coalition reiterated its dedication to supporting the strengthening of Parliament and ensuring that MPs function effectively in advancing democratic governance in Ghana.
The statement was signed by the following CSOs:
Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica)
Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC)
Ghana Integrity Initiative
Network for Women’s Rights in Ghana (NETRIGHT)
Women in Law and Development in Africa-WiLDAF Ghana
BudgIT Ghana
Renel Ghana Foundation
Penplusbytes
Norsaac
Odekro
Concern Health
Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI), Africa Office
CDD-Ghana
Youth Bridge Foundation
Private Enterprise Federation (PEF)
Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD)
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