In a decisive move to strengthen security within Parliament, leadership has unveiled a set of comprehensive measures aimed at safeguarding the Right Honourable Speaker, Members of Parliament (MPs), and parliamentary staff.
The new protocols were announced in a statement signed by the Deputy Marshall of Parliament, WG CDR Frederick Bawa (Rtd), on Monday, October 21. These measures are designed to create a secure and orderly environment during parliamentary proceedings.
The statement emphasized that all MPs must comply with enhanced security procedures. This includes mandatory thorough screening for MPs, staff, and members of the press before they are allowed entry into the Chamber. The goal is to reinforce Parliament’s security infrastructure, ensuring that all individuals entering the premises are properly vetted.
A significant policy shift has been introduced: bodyguards accompanying MPs will no longer be permitted inside the Chamber. MPs, many of whom depend on personal security details, are expected to adhere to this rule in the interest of collective security.
Outside the Chamber, stricter parking regulations will be enforced to reduce congestion and enhance security around the Grand Arena. Vehicles will be restricted from parking in the vicinity, with access limited to designated zones. VIPs will be required to use specific drop-off points at the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) to ensure smooth traffic flow.
The Ghana Police Service will be present to guide drivers and facilitate orderly drop-offs. These new arrangements aim to streamline access while maintaining a secure perimeter around the parliamentary building. Another critical aspect of the security overhaul is the requirement for MPs to wear their parliamentary identification tags at all times. This initiative is intended to help security personnel easily identify authorized individuals both in the Chamber and surrounding areas.
Access to the Chamber will officially begin at 08:00 hours, giving MPs and staff sufficient time to clear security before the start of parliamentary proceedings. Leadership has emphasized that punctuality and cooperation with security officials are crucial to prevent delays.
In addition, access to the public gallery will be temporarily restricted until further notice to maintain a secure and focused environment.
These new security measures come ahead of a highly anticipated parliamentary sitting scheduled for Tuesday. Public interest in the session is high, following the Speaker’s controversial ruling, which left the National Democratic Congress (NDC) with 136 seats, making them the majority, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) holds 135 seats.
SOURCE: https://dew360.net
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