MP’s immunity from arrest not absolute, but a convention – Inusah Fuseini

Inusah Fuseini, a former MP for Tamale Central, spoke about parliamentary immunity. He said this immunity is not absolute. It is a convention that developed over time, not a legal guarantee.

His comments followed an incident on April 9. Officials from the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) visited Assin South MP Rev. John Ntim Fordjour's home. They wanted to question him about claims regarding two questionable flights entering the country.

Government officials dismissed Fordjour’s allegations as baseless. However, this incident raised public concern and outcry from some minority members. They see it as intimidation against opposition voices.

Many lawmakers believe Fordjour should be protected by parliamentary immunity. On Channel One TV's The Big Issues on April 12, 2025, Fuseini explained further. He emphasized that parliamentary immunity is recognized but not legally unassailable.

He noted that this convention began when Abodakpi was arrested. Mike Oquaye played a key role in establishing it during Ayariga’s time. Fuseini warned that a vindictive president could misuse this situation against the minority.

He stated that if immunity were absolute, it would violate Article 17 of the constitution. This article ensures equality before the law for all citizens.