Accra, Nov. 28, GNA - Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin, on Tuesday expressed concern over what he describes as attempts by the security agencies to treat parliament and members of the House with contempt. He said the Constitution and the Standing Orders of parliament had clearly spelt out the privileges of MPs and the manner in which matters involving their rights in relation to offences ought to be handled. Mr. Bagbin raised the issue before the commencement of public business and mentioned the police attitude in particular. The Minority Leader made particular reference to the detention of Mr Felix Twumasi-Appiah, (NDC-Sene) last Friday over allegation of his involvement in a fake gold deal.
The Minority Leader said no MP was above the law, however, there was an accepted practice, adopted by all democracies to protect the rights and privileges of MPs.
He said where MPs privileges were concerned and in matters involving the police, the Speaker and the leadership of parliament should be informed first before a member was treated in a certain way. He said: "It has taken time to develop rules and so we cannot throw away rules and privileges."
The Minority Leader said there was the need for the security agencies to follow and not abuse procedure, especially in civil cases and not just in criminal matters.
"The police is not a force. It is a service and they're to serve the people of Ghana and not force them," Mr Bagbin added.
Mr Felix Owusu Agyapong, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, said there was the need to protect the dignity of parliament and members of parliament but more information was needed on matters of privileges to enable the House handle such issues.
He said there was the need to educate members about their privileges and how to operate in matters pertaining to their rights and the extent to which they were privileged.
The Minister therefore, suggested that the Speaker refer the matter and others pertaining to the privileges of members to the Privileges Committee, which could take a critical look at the matter and deal with all grey areas and advise accordingly.
Mr Freddy Blay, First Deputy Speaker, who was in the chair, ruled that the entire House should look into the matter of privileges. He also asked that the leadership of the House approach the police over their handling of MPs and report back.
