The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has issued a strong warning against the deployment of military personnel for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
In his opening remarks at the third meeting of the fourth session of the eighth parliament, the Speaker emphasized that the care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government.
The Speaker’s statement comes at a time when concerns are growing about the potential for military deployment in the upcoming elections.
The Speaker urged Parliamentarians to prioritize their work and ensure that the rights and freedoms of citizens are protected during the election period.
Speaker Bagbin also revealed his engagement with the Chairpersons of the Electoral Commission, Media Commission, Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice and the National Commission on Civil Education to discuss ways in which Parliament can collaborate with them to create a conducive environment for the elections.
He is expected to engage other key stakeholders including the President, Council of State, National Security Council, flag bearers and national executives of political parties, security services, clergy and notable civil society leaders.
The Speaker’s move comes at a time when concerns are growing about the state of affairs in the country, particularly with regards to joblessness, homelessness and hopelessness among the youth. The Speaker emphasized that Parliament must act together to prevent a journey to calamity or no return.
