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Chaos in Parliament: Speaker of Parliament suspends 4 MPs

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin with immediate effect, has suspended the following members from sittings of Parliament for two weeks.
The are;Rockson Nelson-Dafeamekpor, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Alhassan Tampuli and Jerry Ahmed Shaib
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Read formal communication below
FORMAL COMMUNICATION OF THE RT. HON. ALBAN SUMANA KINGSFORD BAGBIN IN RESPECT OF HAPPENINGS AT THE APPOINTMENT COMMITTEE OF PARLIAMENT
FRIDAY 31ST JANUARY 2025
- Members, in furtherance of the powers conferred on me by the Constitution, 1992, the Parliament Act, 1965, Act 300, the Standing Orders of Parliament, and the Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament of Ghana, I make this statement with a heavy heart and “righteous anger”. I am so shocked and scandalized at what I saw and heard through various media outlets, happened at the sittings of the Appointments Committee yesterday, 30th of January 2025 and this morning. Today, I read the views and reports of our brothers and sisters of the media as to what took place at the said sittings of the Committee. The outrage of the public and the people we represent and serve is apt and understandable.
- What should have been a solemn exercise in parliamentary scrutiny degenerated into an appalling display of chaos and lawlessness, bringing this House into disrepute before the entire world. What transpired was not just a gross affront to the dignity of Parliament but also a blatant contempt of the House. This further aggravates the already existing low level of trust of Parliament and Parliamentarians.
- I have the unfortunate burden of responding to the disgraceful and deeply regrettable events that unfolded during the Appointments Committee.
- Such behaviour is utterly unacceptable and a direct affront to the dignity of this House. The actions of those involved have sullied the image of Parliament and also betrayed the trust of the Ghanaian people, whose expectations of leadership, decorum, and responsible conduct have been callously disregarded.
- The Parliament of Ghana is expected to stand as the foremost institution of democracy, entrusted with the solemn duty of upholding the principles of good governance, integrity, and selfless public service. Yet, the events that transpired during the Appointments Committee hearing yesterday have gravely undermined these ideals.
- These incidents represent a new low in parliamentary conduct and is particularly egregious given its timing and recurrence. It is unconscionable that Members who are supposed to be leaders elected to serve as representatives of the people, would engage in violent confrontations in a setting that demands the highest levels of maturity, emotional intelligence, and statesmanship.
- It is deeply troubling that this is the third time in as many years that such an incident has occurred within the precincts of Parliament. Each time, public outrage has been met with empty apologies and no real change in conduct. This House must acknowledge that it is rapidly eroding public confidence in Ghana’s democracy and that such conduct, if not decisively addressed, will have grave consequences for the credibility of Parliament and the future of democracy in our dear nation .
- Even more alarming is the involvement of some senior members of the House and members in leadership, individuals who ought to embody the principles of leadership and discipline. Their participation in this deplorable spectacle raises serious questions about their fitness to lead and their commitment to upholding the values of Parliament. If Members cannot engage in robust debate without resorting to physical aggression, then they are unfit to discharge the mandate bestowed upon them by the people of Ghana.
- Parliamentary privilege does not and will never extend to lawlessness. The Rules of Parliament exist to guide conduct, and Members are duty-bound to uphold them. Ghanaian citizens deserve a Parliament that exemplifies discipline, intelligence, and the pursuit of national progress, not one that degenerates into a battleground at the slightest disagreement.
- The international community is watching. As Speaker, I have received numerous calls from concerned citizens, civil society organisations, and parliamentary counterparts across the world, all lamenting the disgraceful conduct of Members of this House.
- This unfortunate development is a direct contradiction of the repeated admonitions I have issued to Members. I have consistently reminded this House that respect is earned, not demanded. The manner in which Members conduct themselves determines the extent to which they command the respect of the Ghanaian people. Yet, despite these admonitions, some Members continue to act in a way that dishonours this House and its traditions. This must stop. Parliament cannot continue to excuse misconduct under the guise of political disagreement.
- Consequently, the following emergency measures are to be taken with dispatch:
(a) In the circumstances of the absence of a Privileges and Immunity Committee, a seven-member special committee shall be constituted under Orders 5 and 20 rule 4 to conduct a full-scale investigation into the events of yesterday and this morning. The committee shall identify all Members involved in the disorder and submit its report with findings and recommendations within 10 days from today. Any Member found culpable shall face the appropriate disciplinary measures as prescribed by the Constitution, 1992, the Parliament Act of 1965, and the Standing Orders of Parliament. The following members shall constitute the membership of the Special Committee;
¡ Hon Emmanuel Bedzrah – Chairman
¡¡ Hon Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi
¡¡¡ Hon Gizella Akushika Tetteh- Agbotui (Mrs)
¡v Hon Abena Osei Asare (Mrs)
v Hon Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings (Dr)
v¡ Hon Vincent Oppong Asamoah and
v¡¡ Hon Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng.
(b) In pursuant of section 10 of the Parliamentary Service Act, 1993, Act 460, I directed the Clerk to Parliament to cause to be undertake a full assessment of all damage caused within the committee room and parliamentary precincts as a result of the misconduct of the members. Not a single pesewa of public funds shall be used to repair or replace any damaged property. Instead, Members found responsible shall be surcharged for the full cost of repairs and replacement, with deductions made from their emoluments including the salaries of members, if necessary.
(c) In pursuance of the provisions of the Constitution, 1992, and the Standing Orders of Parliament, I further direct the Clerk to Parliament to formally lodge a complaint with the Ghana Police Service to conduct a full criminal investigation into the matter for appropriate action.
(d) I call for an immediate meeting of the Committee of Selection today, to reconstitute the Appointments Committee as a matter of urgency and to set up the Standing Orders Committee to reconsider a revision of the rules for the assessment of nominees for the consideration and approval by the House.
(e) I draw the attention of Members to the sanctions provided for in the Parliament Act and the Standing Orders of Parliament in the event of a breach of privilege or contempt of Parliament under Orders 34(2) and 36. Also see Article 123 of the Constitution, 1992.
13 Let there be no doubt, Parliament’s credibility has been seriously undermined, and urgent punitive action has to be taken, since this was done contemptus Parlamenti in facie parlamenti. Consequently, the following members are suspended from the sittings of Parliament for two weeks from today. They are;
Mr Rockson Nelson Etse Kwame Dafeamakpor
Mr Frank Annor-Dompreh
Mr Alhassan Sulemana Tampuuli and
Mr Jerry Ahmed Shaib.
In the meantime, a Deputy Whip from each side of the political divide are hereby directed to act in stead.
15 As Speaker, I reaffirm my commitment to restoring the dignity of this House. The people of Ghana deserve a Parliament that exemplifies leadership, integrity, and discipline. Members must reflect deeply on their conduct and be reminded that they hold their seats in trust for the people. The events of 30th January 2025 and this morning must not be repeated.
CONCLUSION
16 I am deeply disappointed by the conduct of Members involved in this shameful episode. Their actions have brought disrepute to Parliament and undermined the democratic values we have sworn to uphold. I wish to extend my sincere apologies to the Ghanaian people for this national embarrassment and assure them that this House will not allow such an incident to recur. Parliament must and will do better. I call on all Members to reflect on their actions, uphold the dignity of this institution, and recommit themselves to the principles of democracy and responsible leadership.
Thank you.
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NSA Boss commends President Mahama for swift payment of NSP allowances

The Acting Director-General of the National Service Authority (NSA), Felix Gyamfi, has lauded President John Dramani Mahama for his swift intervention in clearing all outstanding allowances owed to National Service Personnel (NSP) across the country.
Speaking at a press conference held at the NSA Headquarters in Accra today, Mr. Gyamfi expressed gratitude to the President for ensuring that all service personnel received their stipends within just 15 days of his administration.
“I want to sincerely commend His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for his dedication to the welfare of Ghana’s youth. The speed and efficiency with which he addressed the payment of outstanding allowances in just two weeks is highly commendable,” he stated.
Assurance
He assured personnel that delays in allowance payments would now be a thing of the past, as the government, under President Mahama’s leadership, has prioritised timely disbursement.
Mr. Gyamfi revealed that all outstanding allowances for National Service Personnel from September 2024 to January 2025 have been fully settled.
He provided a detailed breakdown of the payments made:
September 2024 (Backlog): 10,712 personnel paid
October 2024 (Backlog): 10,712 personnel paid
November 2024: 98,145 personnel paid
December 2024: 98,145 personnel paid
January 2025: 98,145 personnel paid
He acknowledged the immense contributions of service personnel to Ghana’s socio-economic development, particularly in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and local governance.
“We recognise the vital role that National Service personnel play in driving national development. That is why this government has made it a priority to ensure they receive their allowances on time,” he said.
Appreciation
The NSA boss also extended his appreciation to the Minister of Finance, Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, and the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare-Addo, for their roles in facilitating the prompt payment of the allowances.
In a bid to enhance efficiency and prevent future payment delays, Mr. Gyamfi announced plans to integrate a biometric-driven payroll system into the NSA’s operations.
The new system, according to him, will provide real-time insights into validated payments, allow personnel to access electronic payslips, and introduce a transparent mechanism for addressing payment discrepancies.
He urged all personnel to adhere strictly to the monthly evaluation calendar to ensure smooth processing of allowances. Mr. Gyamfi announced that the NSA had released PIN codes for 16,289 trained teachers from 36 colleges of education to commence their national service registration.
Expired accreditation
However, he noted that 22 institutions had expired accreditation with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), affecting 9,769 graduates. “To maintain compliance and service credibility, registrations from these institutions will be put on hold until their accreditation status is regularised,” he said, urging affected institutions to renew their accreditation by August 31, 2025.
The NSA boss also revealed plans to revamp the Authority’s farm projects under President Mahama’s “Feed Ghana” agenda. The initiative will focus on increasing productivity in animal husbandry, aquaculture, poultry, and crop production while partnering with schools to revive school farms.
Mr. Gyamfi announced that the NSA Restaurant would now operate 24/7 as part of efforts to support President Mahama’s 24-hour economy policy. The restaurant will introduce delivery services, drive-through options, catering for events, and live band music on Friday nights.
Ghost names
Addressing the issue of ghost names and those allegedly responsible, the Director-General emphasised that the matter was under thorough investigation. He stressed his commitment to upholding due process and ensuring that nothing compromises the integrity of the inquiry.
“If you judge me by my demeanour, you might think I would hesitate to take action against those found culpable. But let me assure you that once the state investigative machinery completes its work, anyone implicated will face the full force of the law. There will be no exemptions, no leniency,” he cautioned.
He reiterated the NSA’s commitment to financial transparency, revealing that all user agencies had been directed to use the Ghana.Gov platform for payments to the Authority.
The measure, he explained, would ensure accountability and prevent fraudulent activities.
The Acting Director-General reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the NSA, ensuring that national service becomes more impactful.
“The NSA is at a turning point, and my leadership is committed to prioritising and promoting initiatives that matter to personnel, staff, stakeholders, and the nation. With strategic planning, efficient deployment, agricultural innovation, and financial transparency, we will transform the NSA into a world-class institution,” he promised.
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GEXIM Management Discusses Collaboration With Danish Ambassador

A team from the Ghana Export – Import Bank (GEXIM) led by the Acting Chief Executive, Sylvester Mensah, on Wednesday February 12, 2025 met officials of the Danish Embassy in Ghana, led by the Head of Mission, His Excellency Tom Nørring at the embassy in Accra.
The meeting afforded the management of the Bank the opportunity to provide a deeper insight into the operations and mandate of the Bank as well as explore possible areas of mutual interest for collaboration with the embassy and other key Danish public and private sector players.
Sylvester Mensah highlighted the vision of the Bank to become a strong financial institution that will be a key engine in the development of Ghana’s export trade, facilitate cross border trade and make Ghana a pillar in regional and continental trade.
He added that the Bank is seeking to advance the policy priorities of the government in the areas of accelerated export trade, increased food production, support agribusiness and to generate growth in job opportunities.
He further emphasized a priority focus on the garment sub-sector for mass employment at a relatively short time as an area for partnership, collaboration and funding for onward lending.
On his part, His Excellency Nørring expressed his appreciation to the Chief Executive and his team for the opportunity to explore avenues of working with the embassy as well as Danish institutions for the benefit of Ghanaian and Danish businesses.
He expressed his optimism of a great collaboration across various sectors. Some “next steps” were agreed upon for immediate follow-up.
Other members of the GEXIM team were Mr. Moses Klu Mensah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, responsible for Banking and Business Operations and Mr. Jonathan Christopher Koney, Manager, International Cooperation.