Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai has spoken out against the misuse of parliamentary immunity, warning that measures will be taken to prevent MPs from exploiting their constitutional protection for personal gain or malicious purposes.

In a recent Facebook post, Dr. Srem-Sai clarified that the protection afforded to MPs against defamation lawsuits is meant to foster good-faith debate in Parliament, not to shield individuals who spread falsehoods. He emphasized that the privilege should not be used to attack others or create unnecessary public discontent.

“The Constitution grants MPs some protection against defamation suits,” he wrote. “But this protection is designed to enhance the quality of good-faith parliamentary debate, not to serve as a safeguard for malicious or false statements.”

Dr. Srem-Sai specifically addressed reports that an unnamed MP had used the immunity to make defamatory remarks that resulted in public backlash. He condemned such actions, stating that they undermine the very purpose of the constitutional privilege.

Additionally, Dr. Srem-Sai responded to claims regarding former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison’s treatment during a National Security search of his residence. He clarified that Dr. Addison was represented by legal counsel throughout the process and that the search was carried out according to court authorization and in a respectful manner.

“Dr. Addison had access to legal counsel throughout the search, which was conducted cordially and in line with the court’s terms,” Dr. Srem-Sai confirmed.

In closing, the Deputy AG reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing the misuse of parliamentary privileges, stating that any abuse will be corrected to ensure the continued growth of Ghana’s democracy. “Such abuses will be corrected for the healthy development of our democracy,” he concluded.

Source:TheDotNews