In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Ghana has granted a stay of execution on Speaker Alban Bagbin’s ruling that declared four parliamentary seats vacant. This move temporarily suspends the implementation of the Speaker’s decision, sparking relief among the affected lawmakers and their supporters.
The controversy began when former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu filed a motion invoking constitutional provisions that require Members of Parliament (MPs) who switch political affiliations or contest elections as independent candidates to vacate their seats. Citing Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution, Speaker Bagbin declared the seats of Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kwadjo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Amoako Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central) vacant.
However, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin swiftly took legal action, filing a suit with the Supreme Court on October 15 to seek clarification on the status of the four MPs. Afenyo-Markin argued that the Speaker’s ruling undermined democratic representation and sought a stay of execution.
Presided over by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo, a five-member panel of Supreme Court justices, including Justice Mariama Owusu, Justice Kwame Adibu Asiedu, Justice Ernest Yao Gaewu, and Justice Yaw Darko Asare, delivered the ruling. Representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs were lawyers Paa Kwesi Abaidoo and former Attorney General Joe Ghartey.
The court directed the Speaker and Attorney General to file their statement of case within seven days and a joint memorandum of issues within the next seven days to facilitate the swift determination of the matter.
This legal intervention ensures that the four MPs will retain their positions in Parliament until the court delivers a final verdict, maintaining the current composition of the legislative body.
REACTIONS
Affected MPs and their supporters welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, expressing relief and gratitude. “This ruling upholds the principles of democracy and representation,” said Cynthia Morrison, MP for Agona West. “We will continue to serve our constituents without interruption.”
Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin praised the court’s swift action, stating, “This decision reinforces the rule of law and protects the rights of our MPs.”
Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, who initiated the motion, declined to comment on the ruling.
IMPLICATIONS
The Supreme Court’s decision has significant implications for Ghana’s parliamentary dynamics, especially with the December 2024 elections looming. The stay of execution ensures uninterrupted legislative duties and maintains the current parliamentary composition.
As the legal battle unfolds, Ghanaians will closely watch the Supreme Court’s final verdict, which will set a precedent for future parliamentary disputes.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
