Majority Chief Whip in Parliament, Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has praised the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Constitution regarding the vacating of four parliamentary seats by Speaker Alban S.K. Bagbin.
The ruling has provided clarity in a case brought before the court by Majority Leader Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, affecting four MPs who had faced uncertainties over their parliamentary status.
Addressing the Parliamentary Press Corps (PPC) on Tuesday, November 12, after the ruling, Annoh-Dompreh described the court’s decision as a victory for Ghana’s democracy and a boost to the nation’s legal framework.
He emphasized that the case was not about political gain but rather about reinforcing Ghana’s democratic principles.
“What we went to court to do was to test our laws. We sought to test our laws, and the apex court did what they had to do. We think it’s a day of victory, not for us as a majority caucus, but for our democracy,” Annoh-Dompreh stated.
He expressed confidence that the decision would serve as a long-standing precedent in Ghana’s parliamentary and constitutional jurisprudence, contributing significantly to the country’s democratic evolution.
Annoh-Dompreh further noted that the Supreme Court’s decision reinforced the constitutional principle of separation of powers, which is foundational to Ghana’s governance.
“We also see it as a definition of true separation of powers that the three arms of government have some limitations in terms of the exercise of powers and responsibilities,” he remarked.
The Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP stressed the necessity of compliance with the court’s decision, urging both the Speaker and Minority members to respect the ruling.
“We don’t expect the minority to do that, we don’t expect the Speaker to do that… we are seeking to govern this country,” he stated, calling for respect for judicial authority in Ghana.
Annoh-Dompreh also underscored the importance of swiftly addressing unfinished legislative business before the year’s end.
He assured the press that the Majority Caucus would ensure that essential bills and budget matters are dealt with and encouraged the Minority group to participate actively in these proceedings.
According to him, although the Majority would work diligently to meet quorum requirements, both sides of Parliament represent constituencies, making Minority participation essential for comprehensive governance.
Annoh-Dompreh affirmed that the Majority Caucus would continue to fulfill its obligations to Ghana’s citizens, assuring that when needed, the NPP group would marshal their numbers.