Parliament Won’t Shield MPs from Legitimate Investigations – Speaker Bagbin Declares

Speaker reaffirms Parliament’s commitment to rule of law amid high-profile probes

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, has stated emphatically that the legislative arm of government will not protect any Member of Parliament (MP) from lawful investigations or legal scrutiny.

Addressing the House on Monday, May 27, 2025, Speaker Bagbin reiterated Parliament’s respect for the rule of law and affirmed that no lawmaker is above due process.

“Let me make it abundantly clear: Parliament will not, and cannot, shield any of its members from legitimate investigations or prosecution,” he said. “The laws of Ghana apply to all citizens equally, including members of this august House.”

His remarks come amid growing public interest in recent high-profile cases involving sitting MPs and other political figures under investigation for alleged corruption, abuse of office, and environmental offences such as illegal mining.

Speaker Bagbin underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of Parliament and urged MPs to cooperate fully with investigative bodies such as the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) when called upon.

While assuring MPs of their constitutional privileges, Bagbin clarified that these do not amount to immunity from accountability. “Parliamentary privileges are not a licence for impunity. They are meant to safeguard the institution’s independence, not to obstruct justice,” he added.

The Speaker also urged investigative institutions to handle matters professionally, avoiding sensationalism and ensuring due respect for the dignity of Parliament and its members.

The statement has been widely applauded by civil society organisations and legal analysts, who see it as a firm step toward restoring public trust in the nation’s democratic institutions.

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