Bagbin orders attendance records, threatens sanctions against absent MPs

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has cautioned lawmakers over their continued absence from parliamentary sittings, signaling readiness to enforce sanctions.

“It looks like a catastrophic mistake I did. I should have brought it out and referred members to the Privileges Committee.

“I thought that was not a good way to start this meeting but it is like it has encouraged members not to be present,” he said while addressing the House on Wednesday, October 29.

The Speaker admitted that his earlier approach does not appear to have improved the situation. He noted that absenteeism continues despite repeated reminders.

“I’m saying this for the last time. I have given notice to the Clerk at table to take the record of this meeting and please we have the standing orders, we know what they say,” Mr Bagbin stated.

He further warned that action will be taken against MPs who fail to attend sittings without justifiable cause.

“We will be taking action to make sure that we compel members to sit or to be considered to have vacated their seats. This matter, I will say no more,” he added.

Mr Bagbin has since directed the Clerk to Parliament to keep detailed attendance records to support disciplinary measures against MPs who are habitually absent without permission.