No MP is above the law – Inusah Fuseini

Former MP Inusah Fuseini has sparked debate about parliamentary immunity. This follows a visit by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) to Assin South MP Rev. John Ntim Fordjour's home.

Fuseini spoke on Channel One TV’s The Big Issues. He stated that parliamentary immunity is not as strong as many believe. In Ghana, it is more of a convention than a strict legal principle.

He explained that the concept of immunity began after Abodakpi's arrest. Mike Oquaye played a key role in establishing this convention during Ayariga’s time. Therefore, it is not formally enshrined in law.

His comments follow an incident on April 9. NIB officials reportedly visited Rev. Fordjour to question him about suspicious flights entering the country. This action has caused public outrage and raised concerns about state security agencies' treatment of MPs.

Fuseini warned that political motivations could disrupt parliament's work. He noted that a vindictive president might target minority members with criminal charges.

“When this happens, MPs may struggle to perform their duties,” he said.

While immunity exists theoretically, Fuseini emphasized it is not foolproof. “It is not absolute,” he stated, adding that making it absolute would violate Article 17 of the constitution, which ensures equality before the law.