By Edzorna Francis Mensah
The Parliamentary Security, Fire and Protection Units, in collaboration with the Police, Ghana Armed Forces, National Security, Fire Service, and other National Security Agencies, have secured Parliament ahead of the State of the Nation Address, dissolution, and inauguration of Parliament slated for Monday, January 6, 2025, at the Parliament House.
There has been a massive deployment of combined police and military personnel to the forecourt of Parliament House ahead of the final State of the Nation Address scheduled for Friday, January 3, 2025. The security presence will remain in place until the swearing-in of the President-elect.
As part of the security measures, additional checkpoints have been set up outside Parliament and within its inner perimeter. A strict “no ID, no entry” policy applies to all individuals, including Members of Parliament, journalists, and staff, to prevent unauthorized access.
Additionally, the Ghana Armed Forces Band has been seen rehearsing at the MPs’ Car Park to prepare for the president’s arrival to deliver his address, preceding the dissolution of the 8th Parliament in accordance with the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana.
Briefing the Parliamentary Press Corps on the dissolution of the 8th Parliament and the inauguration of the 9th Parliament, the Chairman of the Transition Committee, Carmillo Pwamang, who is also the Deputy Clerk for Legislative Management Services, emphasized that transparency remains at the core of their mission. He stated, “Recognizing that trust is fundamental to a successful transition, we will provide regular updates through press briefings, social media platforms, and official reports.”
He also urged the media to hold them accountable during this critical period. “While we are optimistic about the transition, we acknowledge the potential for challenges,” he said.
Mr. Pwamang acknowledged that political transitions can be complex, involving differing opinions and perspectives. However, he expressed optimism for the future, saying, “We look forward to a new chapter in Ghana’s governance. Let us remember that this transition is not merely about changing leaders; it is about continuing our collective journey toward progress, development, and national unity.”
