Majority leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has called on Speaker Alban S.K. Bagbin to respect the Supreme Court’s decision and convene Parliament promptly so that lawmakers can return to their duties.
Describing the ruling of the Supreme Court on the four seats vacated by the Speaker as a triumph for Ghana’s constitutional democracy and the rule of law, Afenyo-Markin stressed that the decision should not be seen as partisan but as a step toward clarity within Ghana’s governance.
“This judicial interpretation of our Constitution should strengthen, not weaken, the relationship between leadership and members of the House,” he stated
In a statement following the Court’s decision, the Majority leader emphasized the importance of prioritizing Ghana’s development agenda and reminded MPs of their responsibilities.
In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Supreme Court declared that the Speaker of Parliament does not have the constitutional authority to declare parliamentary seats vacant.
The judgment, which came after a highly anticipated case brought before the court by Afenyo-Markin, holds major implications for the ongoing term of the 8th Parliament.
A 5-2 majority decision clarified that Article 97(1)(g) and (h) of the 1992 Constitution does not grant the Speaker powers to unilaterally declare seats vacant.
The case, filed to seek clarity on the Speaker’s constitutional role, affects four MPs: Hon. Cynthia Mamle Morrison (NPP, Agona West), Hon. Peter Yaw Kwakye-Ackah (NDC, Amenfi Central), Hon. Kwadjo Asante (NPP, Suhum), and Hon. Andrew Asiamah Amoako (Independent, Fomena).
Despite plans by three of these MPs to contest upcoming elections as independents, the ruling upholds their standing as members of Parliament.
“This landmark decision should not be seen as a victory for one side or a defeat for another.”
“Rather, it represents a triumph for our constitutional democracy and the rule of law. It reinforces the principle that in our Republic, every institution, no matter how exalted, must operate within the bounds of our Constitution,” Afenyo-Markin stressed.
The court’s decision settles an ongoing debate within the House, which had previously seen tension surrounding the Speaker’s authority.
The Majority Leader expressed hope that the judgment would strengthen cooperation within Parliament as the body moves forward.
He extended a hand of unity to members of the Minority caucus, urging them to focus on their ‘sacred duty’ to the people of Ghana.
Time, he said, has come for the House to move beyond this episode and redirect their energies towards Parliament’s primary duty- serving the good people of Ghana who elected them to represent their interests.
“Our nation faces pressing challenges that demand our united attention and collaborative effort,” he stated.
Parliament is expected to resume proceedings soon with the ruling now in place, with MPs refocusing on legislative priorities.
The Majority leader stressed, “Our democracy emerges stronger when we respect the wisdom of our Constitution and the interpretation of its guardians.”