Baffour Awuah's detention raised questions about his rights, the privileges and independence of Parliament - Parliament

Parliament has expressed grave concern over the continuous detention of Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO). The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, views the circumstances as a serious issue concerning the rights of the Member, the privileges and independence of Parliament, and the proper use of investigative powers.

Parliament reaffirms that Members of Parliament do not hold themselves above the law, and if a Member is suspected of an offense, the law must be enforced. However, Parliament emphasizes that Members do not operate solely in their personal capacities and that certain safeguards protect Parliament's independence and the mandate of the people they represent.

The Speaker has not yet seen the court order directing ECOO to enforce the warrant but stresses that any decision to continue holding the Member in custody must be based on clear legal grounds and necessity. Parliament is particularly concerned about the necessity and proportionality of the detention, given that the Member voluntarily reported to ECOO and cooperated with the process.

The detention of a Member who has already voluntarily appeared before ECOO should not become routine or punitive. Past instances of arrest, detention, or prosecution of sitting Members of Parliament call for clearer procedures and potential legislative changes to ensure accountability, due process, and the rule of law while maintaining Parliament's independence and functionality.