By Iddi Yire
Accra, Nov 12, GNA – Mr Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business in Parliament has welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling that the Speaker’s declaration of four Parliamentary seats vacant is unconstitutional.
The Majority Leader in a statement after the nation’s top court ruling, copied to the Ghana News Agency said, “Today’s ruling by the Supreme Court, delivered by a considered majority of 5:2, brings much-needed clarity to a complex constitutional matter that has occupied our august House for some time”.
“In the case I brought before the Supreme Court, I sought clarity on Article 97(1)(g) and (h) of our 1992 Constitution, particularly concerning the Speaker’s power to declare parliamentary seats vacant.
“While we await the Court’s full written reasoning, its decision on this constitutional – question is clear and binding: The Constitution does not – rant the Speaker the – power to declare parliamentary seats vacant.”
Mr Afenyo-Markin said this landmark decision affects four prominent members of our House: Madam Cynthia Mamle Morrison, NPP Member of Parliament (MP) for Agona West; Mr Peter Yaw KwakyeAckah, National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for Amenfi Central; Mr Kwadjo Asante, NPP MP for Suhum and Mr Andrew Asiamah Amoako, Independent MP for Fomena.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said while three of these members had filed to contest the upcoming December 7 elections as independent candidates, and Mr Asiamah Amoako had chosen to return to the NPP fold, the Court’s decision affirms their current standing as legitimate members of the Eighth Parliament.
He said the Supreme Court’s decision should not be seen as a victory for one side or a defeat for another; stating that rather, it represents a triumph for the nation’s constitutional democracy and the rule of law.
He said it reinforces the principle that in Republic of Ghana, every institution, no matter how exalted, must operate within the bounds of the Constitution.
“To my colleagues across the political divide, I extend a hand of friendship,” he said.
“The time has come for us to move beyond this episode and redirect our energies toward our primary duty serving the good people of Ghana who elected us to represent their interests.”
He said the nation faced pressing challenges that demanded their united attention and collaborative effort.
“To the Right Honorable Speaker, I reaffirm my utmost respect for your office and your distinguished service to our nation,” he stated.
“This judicial interpretation of our Constitution should strengthen, not weaken, the relationship between leadership and members of the House.”
Mr Afenyo-Markin said with the highest regard for the Speaker’s wisdom and commitment to the nation’s democracy, he respectfully looked forward to the Speaker exercise of his authority to reconvene Parliament, so that together, they might resume their sacred duty to the People of Ghana without further delay or discord.
“As we return to our legislative duties as soon as possible, let us remember that we are first and foremost servants of the people,” he said.
The Majority Leader said the voters who sent them to Parliament expect them to prioritize their interests above all else; declaring that they deserve nothing less than their total commitment to advancing the development agenda that will improve their lives.
“I call on all members of Parliament to view this moment as an opportunity for renewal. Let us approach our duties with fresh vigor, determined to work together in the spirit of constructive dialogue and mutual respect,” he said.
The Majority Leader said the clarification provided by the Supreme Court should serve as a foundation for more effective parliamentary proceedings.
“Our democracy emerges stronger when we respect the wisdom of our Constitution and the interpretation of its guardians,” he said
“Let us now focus on the critical work ahead, united in our commitment to Ghana’s progress and prosperity.”
GNA