Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin says security agencies do not need his approval before arresting or inviting a Member of Parliament for questioning.
Addressing lawmakers during the Second Meeting of the Second Session of Parliament on Thursday, May 21, Bagbin said many people misunderstand the legal process involving MPs and law enforcement agencies.
He explained that Parliament’s leadership cannot approve or block the arrest of an MP.
According to him, security agencies only need to officially inform the Speaker’s office about any action involving a lawmaker. He said they must also provide details of the allegations or circumstances behind the investigation.
Bagbin added that his office would then determine whether parliamentary privilege or immunity applies under the law.
“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,” he said.
The Speaker’s remarks come amid ongoing public discussions about parliamentary immunity and the powers of state security agencies.
