Parliamentary Coup d’état”: Allotey Jacobs Slams Speaker’s Vacancy Declaration
Former NDC Central Regional Chairman, Allotey Jacobs, has condemned Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration of four parliamentary seats vacant as a “parliamentary coup d’état.” Jacobs criticized the move, citing its potential to destabilize Ghana’s democracy. Apexnewsgh reports The controversy began on October 15, 2024, when Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson questioned four MPs’ status. Despite the Supreme Court’s stay, NDC MPs vowed to disregard the decision. Jacobs warned that defying the court threatens democracy and urged respect for the rule of law. The dispute involves two NPP MPs, one NDC MP, and one independent MP. “We can’t allow parliamentary coups,” Jacobs said on Accra-Peace FM. “If you want majority, campaign and return to Parliament in 2025.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
NDC MPs Ready to Return to Parliament Amidst Political Standoff
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament are prepared to return to Parliament if Speaker Alban Bagbin issues a recall for parliamentary proceedings, according to Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga. Apexnewsgh reports This assurance comes after the indefinite adjournment of Parliament on Tuesday, October 22, following a contentious session between the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over which party holds the majority in the House. Ayariga emphasized the NDC’s readiness to respond immediately to the Speaker’s call, highlighting their commitment to fulfilling legislative responsibilities despite ongoing political tensions. The willingness of NDC MPs to return reflects their dedication to ensuring Ghana’s governance process continuity. They will promptly resume duties when directed by the Speaker, demonstrating their commitment to serving the nation. The adjournment followed sharp disagreements between the NDC and NPP over majority side occupancy. Ayariga noted the NPP’s significant underrepresentation, with fewer than 30 members present, accusing them of lacking preparedness and not taking parliamentary business seriously. He criticized NPP MPs’ disruption of proceedings as part of Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s plan to maintain position and influence. Despite the standoff, Ayariga reaffirmed NDC MPs’ preparedness to return when the Speaker recalls them. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications The party commits to ensuring smooth parliamentary business and fulfilling legislative responsibilities for the country’s benefit. “Many NPP MPs are campaigning in constituencies; we’ll come when the Speaker calls and listen if he says we’re the Minority, but he hasn’t,” Ayariga stated on Accra-based Citi FM.
Attorney General Challenges Speaker’s Decision in Supreme Court
Godfred Yeboah Dame, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, has submitted his response to the Supreme Court case initiated by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Apexnewsgh reports Dame contests Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant, citing inconsistency with the Constitution. The controversy began when three MPs filed to run as independent candidates in the December 2024 elections. Dame argues that merely filing nominations doesn’t disqualify MPs from holding their current seats. He emphasizes that an MP’s seat can only be vacated during the current term if they switch parties or declare independence. The Supreme Court has issued a stay of execution on Bagbin’s ruling, temporarily halting enforcement. Dame urges the Court to interpret the Constitution in its entirety, considering all relevant sections. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
No Retreat, No Surrender–Cynthia Morrison Unshaken with Her Independent Bid
Former Gender Minister and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Agona West, Cynthia Mamle Morrison, has reaffirmed her commitment to contesting the 2024 election as an independent candidate. Apexnewsgh reports This comes despite the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, declaring her seat vacant on October 17, alongside three other MPs. Speculation had risen that Morrison might reconsider her decision to run, especially after viral photos emerged of her with prominent NPP members, including Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong. However, a statement from her office has categorically denied any intention to step down from the race. Morrison’s decision to run as an independent candidate was initially announced in August, following her loss in the NPP parliamentary primary to Christopher Arthur. Her office has now reassured the public of her unwavering dedication to serving her constituents, stating, “Any claims suggesting otherwise are false and intended to mislead the public.” The statement urged the media and public to rely on official sources for accurate information, reaffirming Morrison’s determination to continue serving her constituency despite the recent declaration of her seat being vacant. With this clarification, Morrison’s campaign as an independent candidate is set to proceed, underscoring her commitment to her constituents. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications