Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has moved to clarify a matter that he contends has been widely misunderstood, stating that law enforcement agencies do not need his permission before arresting or summoning a Member of Parliament for questioning.
Speaking to parliamentarians on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the commencement of the Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament, Mr. Bagbin stressed that the leadership of Parliament has no authority to authorise or prevent MP arrests.
He clarified that security agencies are only required by law to formally notify the Speaker’s office of any such action, along with the specifics of the charges or events that led to the investigation or arrest.
After then, his office would determine whether the legislation applies parliamentary privilege or immunity.
“It’s not for the security agents to seek my permission before arresting or inviting a Member of Parliament for questioning. It’s not. It’s for them to inform me and include the circumstances or the allegations that have created the suspicion,” the Speaker stated.
Mr. Bagbin’s explanation affirms the constitutional safeguards granted to parliamentarians where they legally apply and takes a strong stand against any notion that Parliament could be used as a shield against valid law enforcement action.
Source: newsthemegh.com