Minority questions Bagbin’s ‘Harsh and Selective’ suspension of 3 NPP MPs

The Minority in Parliament has criticised Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to suspend three New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament, calling it an abuse of authority and a threat to parliamentary democracy.

The suspended MPs—Frank Annoh-Dompreh (Nsawam-Adoagyiri), Alhassan Sulemana Tampuli (Gushegu), and Jerry Ahmed Shaib (Weija-Gbawe)—were sanctioned following chaotic scenes during the vetting of ministerial nominees on Thursday, January 30.

In a statement dated January 31, 2025, the Minority Caucus accused the Speaker of unfairly targeting opposition lawmakers, arguing that the suspension was politically motivated and intended to stifle dissent.

“The unfortunate incident that led to minor property damage was not a planned act but rather a reflection of the tensions caused by the Majority’s refusal to build consensus and the Appointments Committee Chair’s lack of impartiality,” the statement read.

The Minority also challenged the legality of the suspension, citing Standing Orders 130(a) and (b) as well as Article 19(1) of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to a fair hearing. 

They argued that Speaker Bagbin’s selective enforcement of parliamentary discipline undermines his credibility, referencing previous incidents—including the 2021 Speakership election chaos, the E-Levy brawl, and the July 30, 2024, Supreme Court judge nominations hearing—where no similar punitive action was taken.

“Why now? Why impose harsh and selective punishment at this moment? This inconsistency raises serious concerns about fairness and neutrality in the House,” the statement continued.

The Minority insists that Parliament should remain a space for robust debate rather than an institution where members are punished for questioning authority. They have vowed to resist any attempts to suppress opposition voices.

Read the NPP MPs full statement below:

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