Bagbin Bans MPs From Using Sirens Without Approval
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has issued a stern directive prohibiting Members of Parliament from deploying vehicle sirens, strobe lights, or police escorts without explicit authorization from the Ministry of the Interior, declaring the practice an abuse of privilege that undermines public order and road safety.
Delivering the caution on the floor of the House, Bagbin expressed concern over the increasing sight of legislators moving with unauthorized security paraphernalia, a trend he described as creating undue intimidation on public roads and eroding the principle of equality before the law. He emphasized that the use of such devices is reserved for constitutionally designated persons and state institutions, and not for personal convenience or political showmanship.
According to the Speaker of Parliament’s official communication, “No MP is allowed to use vehicle sirens, strobe lights, or police escort without prior approval from the Interior Ministry.” Bagbin further instructed the Parliamentary Service to liaise with the Ghana Police Service and the Ministry to compile a register of MPs who have legitimate security needs, while warning that violations would be referred to the appropriate disciplinary and law enforcement bodies for sanction.
The pronouncement comes amid growing public disquiet over the proliferation of sirens and escorts in urban traffic, which many citizens view as symptomatic of entitlement within the political class. Security analysts note that unauthorized use of emergency signals not only breaches the Road Traffic Regulations but also compromises operational protocols for genuine emergency responders. Parliamentary aides and drivers have now been put on notice to desist forthwith pending formal clearance.
Historically, privileges accorded to legislators in Ghana have been subject to periodic review to align with democratic norms and public expectations. Bagbin’s intervention seeks to recalibrate that balance by reinforcing institutional discipline and restoring decorum to the conduct of public officials. The directive is expected to trigger immediate compliance checks and could prompt broader reforms on the protocol for official movement.
As the House resumes full legislative business, the Speaker’s fiat signals a renewed commitment to accountability and the responsible use of state symbols. The onus now lies with individual MPs and party leaderships to ensure adherence, lest the legislature be perceived as insulated from the rules it enacts for the citizenry.
Source: Office of the Speaker of Parliament
Author: Korkor Anumu
Call or WhatsApp +233 20 2190 250 and share your story.
