We are not safe in Parliament – Bagbin

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has expressed concerns over the security of lawmakers and Parliamentary Service members, citing increasing incidents of attacks by unidentified individuals within the parliamentary enclave.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Parliamentary Service Board for the ninth Parliament, Bagbin urged the Majority Leader to prioritize efforts to enhance security measures within the precincts of the House.

The Speaker revealed that intruders had previously entered Parliament’s premises and attacked members and staff, often escaping by scaling the perimeter wall into the surrounding forest.

He emphasised that strengthening security within the parliamentary precinct is essential for the smooth functioning of the legislature.

“One of the challenges that need to be addressed is to secure the parliamentary enclave to ensure the safety of members and staff. This has been a worrying matter for parliament for some time now, we are actually insecure here.

“We are not safe. Sometimes people can come in and attack us or staff and anytime there is an attempt to apprehend them, they scale over the wall and escape into the forest. This is vital for the functioning of parliament. I believe the ninth board will work assiduously to make this a reality.

“I will call on the leaders of the house to follow up on this matter,” he stated.