The Ministry of National Security has moved to quell what it says is a festering misconception about the withdrawal of military personnel attached to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin.
In a statement dated January 15, 2022, the Ministry said, contrary to the misconception that the withdrawal of the four military personnel has been masterminded by the Executive to deprive the Speaker of the resources required for his full protection, logistics and resources for the Speaker’s protection have been provided.
“It is worth noting that for the first time since 2017, the security arrangements for both the Speaker and Members of Parliament have been significantly enhanced.
“It also needs stating that personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces do not form part of the security detail for the Speaker and Parliament as Parliamentary security support is provided by the Ghana Police Service. Any need for specific agency support is typically executed on a need-basis in accordance with stated protocols,” the statement explained.
A surprise correspondence dated January 11, 2022, from the GAF’s Major General Andoh announced the withdrawal of the four military personnel attached to the Speaker of Parliament.
The letter stated that the withdrawal of WO1 Jafaru Bunwura, WOII Apugiba Awine David, S/Sgt Agbley Prosper and Sgt. Bonney Prince has become necessary because they were detailed to the Speaker’s office without proper procedure.
“It is humbly requested that the personnel are withdrawn with effect from 14 January 2022 while efforts are made to regularize their attachment,” the letter dated January 11, 2021, stated.
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Some social media comments about the withdrawal suggest it could be politically motivated to frustrate the Speaker for his outspoken opposition against some Executive decisions.
Meanwhile, a letter has appeared online to suggest the Speaker's Office did inform the GAF before the said personnel were deployed.
The letter intercepted by Prime News, dated January 21, 2021, shows Alban Bagbin’s office officially wrote to the GAF to request for the four personnel that have been withdrawn.
It is unclear whether or not the GAF approved the Speaker's request.
The now-withdrawn military personnel had been attached to the Speaker for almost one year.