Parliamentary Probe: Alban Bagbin Sets Up Committee to Investigate Vetting Chaos

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has taken swift action to address the chaotic events that unfolded on January 30, 2025, during a vetting process in Parliament. In a decisive move, Bagbin has established a seven-member committee, chaired by Ho West MP Emmanuel Bedzrah, to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

The Speaker’s declaration on the floor of Parliament on January 31, 2025, emphasized that any member found culpable would face disciplinary actions, including bearing the full cost of repairs, which would be deducted from their salaries. Bagbin condemned the incident, describing it as “disgraceful and deeply regrettable,” and stressed that it undermines the integrity of Parliament.

Bagbin’s remarks also highlighted the importance of maintaining decorum and upholding the law, stating, “Parliamentary privilege does not and will never extend to lawlessness.”

He expressed concern over the timing and setting of the chaos, noting that it is “deeply troubling” that such an incident occurred within the precincts of Parliament.

The chaos erupted during a heated session of Parliament’s appointments committee, where two ministerial nominees, Health Minister-designate Kwabena Akandoh and Foreign Affairs Minister-designate Okudzeto Ablakwa, were about to be vetted. The opposition lawmakers had requested that the vetting be rescheduled to January 31, which led to a clash between Minority and Majority members, resulting in the destruction of some equipment.