Three Members of Parliament (MPs) face possible expulsion from Ghana’s Parliament for repeatedly absenting themselves without official approval during the first meeting of the Ninth Parliament.
According to a newly released Parliamentary Attendance Report, a total of 28 MPs were cited for various degrees of absenteeism between January and March 2025, covering 43 sittings. The report highlights that several lawmakers failed to attend sessions for extended periods without obtaining formal leave from the Speaker.
Per Article 97(1)(c) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, an MP automatically forfeits their seat if they miss 15 sittings in a session without the Speaker’s written permission.
The report shows that three MPs exceeded this threshold and therefore risk losing their seats:
Joseph Frempong (Nkawkaw) – 22 days absent
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson (Ajumako/Enyan/Essiam) – 17 days absent
Blay Nyameke Armah (Sekondi) – 16 days absent
These MPs could face disciplinary action pending a formal review by the Privileges Committee of Parliament.
Other MPs with high absentee rates, though below the disqualification limit, include:
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (North Tongu) – 14 days
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie (Effiduase/Asokore) – 14 days
Kwabena Boateng (Ejisu) – 13 days
Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo (Wa Central) – 13 days
The report has sparked renewed debate over parliamentary accountability, with calls for stricter enforcement of attendance regulations. Civic groups argue that chronic absenteeism undermines legislative efficiency and erodes public confidence in Parliament’s ability to represent constituents effectively.
Parliamentary sources say the Speaker’s office will soon issue summons for the affected MPs to explain their absence before any decision is made on sanctions or possible seat forfeiture.