Security has been strengthened in Parliament with barricades mounted at the entrance to the chamber to prevent four suspended Members of Parliament (MPs) from gaining access ahead of Tuesday’s sitting.
According to TV3’s parliamentary correspondent Christian Yalley , security was heightened ahead of proceedings not only to stop the suspended MPs but also to prevent non-MPs from entering the chamber.
The four lawmakers were suspended for two weeks by Speaker Alban Bagbin for their involvement in a violent confrontation during the vetting of ministerial nominees on January 30 at the Appointments Committee sitting. However, the Minority Caucus strongly opposes the decision, arguing that it was unilateral and demanding an immediate reversal.
Dressed in red and black, Minority MPs staged a protest inside Parliament, chanting patriotic songs in defiance of the Speaker’s ruling.
They have also submitted a formal memo to Speaker Bagbin requesting a reconsideration of his decision.
With proceedings set to begin at 2pm, a heavy police presence has been observed around Parliament, with barricades at key entry points.
The heightened security measures come as the House prepares to deliberate and make a final decision on the approval of several ministerial nominees vetted earlier by the Appointments Committee.
Dr. Shafic Suleman appointed acting Executive Secretary of PURC
