NDC warns against military presence in parliament amid heightened political tensions
As tensions mount ahead of Parliament’s reassembling on October 22, 2024, concerns about a possible military presence have ignited controversy between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The NDC has raised alarm, accusing the government of planning to deploy soldiers to Parliament, following the Speaker of Parliament’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant. This decision, now stayed by the Supreme Court, has further deepened political tensions between the two parties.
NDC Chief Whip Kwame Governs Agbodza voiced strong opposition to any military involvement, warning that his caucus would resist such actions. He also referenced a past incident in 2021, alleging that the military was used during the opening of the 8th Parliament, where MPs were assaulted.
“We are aware that between yesterday and today, some element of government have had the meeting again to deploy the military to the precinct of Parliament to enter the tent. We are aware of that,” Mr. Agbodza said.
The Adaklu MP cautioned that, with the government’s time in office nearing its end, accountability would be demanded for its past actions, including any future military interventions. “The life of this government is less than 2 months. They will have to account for their conduct in 2020 and whatever they do tomorrow. But they shouldn’t be surprised that the people of this country would react forcefully to anybody in uniform on Tuesday and beyond,” he added.
In response, the NPP has denied any knowledge of military deployment plans. Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News, First Deputy Majority Whip Habib Iddrisu stated that the Majority had not been informed of any military presence in Parliament.
“We in the Majority have not been notified by any presence of the military. The Majority Leader has not been communicated of the presence of the military,” Mr. Iddrisu confirmed.
