Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has described the Supreme Court’s verdict on Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant as a significant test of Ghana’s Constitution and democracy.
On Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s suit questioning Speaker Bagbin’s decision to declare the seats of Suhum, Amenfi Central, Agona West, and Fomena vacant.
In an interview on Channel One News, Assafuah emphasized that the ruling is not just a political victory for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus, but also a crucial moment for Ghana’s democratic system.
He argued that the verdict, which struck down Bagbin’s declaration, serves as a clarification of the Constitution and affirms the separation of powers within Ghana’s parliamentary system.
Assafuah added that the Supreme Court’s decision provides clarity on the interpretation of Article 97 of the 1992 Constitution.
He noted that this ruling defines the specific circumstances under which seats in Parliament may be declared vacant, providing a clear distinction between the majority and minority in Parliament.
He stressed that the decision further strengthens the rule of law and sets a positive example for the future, ensuring that constitutional issues are addressed in a manner consistent with democratic principles.
Assafuah also commended the court for upholding the Constitution and clarifying an important aspect of Ghana’s parliamentary practices, noting that the outcome of the case is a win for the country’s democratic processes.
“I do not think that this is a victory for the NPP for which reason I am supposed to be happy. No, I don’t think so, I believe that this is a test of our constitution and our democracy. It is a victory for our democracy.
“Going forward it means that there has been some amount of finality on what Article 97 is. It is going to serve as some amount of guidance. This is a victory for our democracy not a victory for the New Patriotic Party and the majority caucus”
Minority will boycott Parliament until after elections – Nii Lante Vanderpuye
#GhanaPolls2024
#ElectionBureau
#CitiVerify
