The Director of Communication for the Parliamentary Network Africa, Clement Akoloh, has called for more information following the arrest and detention of the Member of Parliament for Asante Akyem North, Ohene Kwame Frimpong, in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Speaking on Bullet TV’s Midday News with Kanneth Amenyeke, Clement Akoloh said many Ghanaians were shocked after news broke that the MP had been detained abroad.
According to him, Parliament’s communication on the issue did not clearly explain the reasons behind the arrest.
He said Parliament’s Public Relations Department should be commended for quickly informing the public about the detention, but added that further updates are needed.
“We need more details on the exact issues surrounding the detention so the public can understand what is happening,” he said.
Mr. Akoloh also questioned whether local authorities in Ghana could have been informed to investigate the matter instead of allowing the MP to be arrested outside the country.
He explained that Members of Parliament enjoy certain privileges and protections under Ghana’s parliamentary rules, especially when carrying out official parliamentary duties.
Citing Standing Order 24 of Parliament, he said civil or criminal processes cannot easily be served on a Member of Parliament while the person is attending parliamentary proceedings or travelling to and from Parliament.
He added that Standing Order 25 also outlines procedures to be followed when a Member of Parliament is to be detained or restricted by law enforcement agencies.
Mr. Akoloh stressed the need for due process and transparency in handling matters involving lawmakers to protect the image of the country and its democratic institutions.
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