The Seven-member adhoc committee set up by the Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin to probe the chaos that erupted during the vetting of ministerial nominees will deploy the services of forensic experts to ascertain the veracity of multimedia evidence as it holds public hearings effective Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
House Speaker Alban Bagbin set up the committee to examine issues surrounding the destruction of public property on January 30, 2025 where the minority and majority members of the Appointments Committee of Parliament clashed during the vetting of the president’s nominees for various ministerial positions.
Setting up the committee, the Speaker urged the need for the legislature to set good examples while emphasising that the need for the public hearings to restore public trust.
Outcome of the committee’s work is expected to have significant implications on Ghana’s parliamentary conduct and governance.
The committee has been given a 10-day deadline to report its findings and recommendations.
Outlining the modalities for the public hearing at press conference in parliament House, Chairman of the committee, Emmanuel Kwesi Bedzrah who is also the Member for Ho West said the services of a forensic expert of the Ghana Police Service has been secured to assist the committee in its work.
Mr Bedzrah appealed to the public to volunteer information in whatever form to assist the committee in its work.
According to him, the committee has set up a dedicated digital platform for the public to submit multimedia evidence, including videos, audio recordings, and texts.
“We have created a WhatsApp platform for the submission of relevant materials to expedite the investigation,”….
“Anyone who has videos, audio recordings, or any relevant evidence can send it to the clerk of the committee on 0244 926911.”
He also assured that the committee is not aimed at witch hunting any member of parliament.
“We are not here to witch-hunt anyone,” he reiterated, explaining “Our purpose is to identify if any Member of Parliament flouted the rules of engagement during the vetting process.” he said.
Members of the committee include Emmanuel Kwesi Bedzrah (Chairman), Member for Asante Akim Central, Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, and Member for Awutu Senya West, Gizella Akushika Tetteh-Agbotui.
Others are; Member for Atewa East, Abena Osei Asare, Member for Klotey Korle, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member for Old Tafo, Vincent Oppong Asamoah, and Member for Lawra, Bede Anwataazuma Ziedeng.
By: Christian Kpesese
