Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has raised concerns regarding what he perceives as a concerted effort by both the Judiciary and the Executive to undermine Parliament’s authority. Apexnewsgh reports
This alarm was sounded following a Supreme Court ruling that prohibited him from declaring four parliamentary seats vacant, a decision that has ignited a fierce debate about the limits of the Speaker’s powers and the influence of the Judiciary over parliamentary matters.
Bagbin, disturbed by the Supreme Court’s intervention, initially contested the ruling. He argued passionately that Parliament, as a distinct and separate branch of government, should maintain exclusive control over its own decisions. Additionally, he sought to nullify a writ from Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, which called for judicial action to prevent further declarations regarding the contentious seats.
During a media briefing, Bagbin did not hold back in expressing his fears. He accused the Judiciary and the Executive of encroaching on the legislative arm’s independence. “This interference could destabilize Ghana’s democracy,” he warned, emphasizing that matters internal to Parliament should not fall under judicial scrutiny. He underscored the risk of setting a dangerous precedent that could erode the separation of powers outlined in Ghana’s Constitution.
The Speaker outlined several key concerns stemming from this situation. First, he pointed to what he described as judicial overreach, asserting that the courts are overstepping their authority by delving into parliamentary issues. He also expressed suspicions of an alliance between the Executive and the Judiciary aimed at diminishing Parliament’s role. Most alarmingly, Bagbin warned that such encroachments threaten not just parliamentary authority but also the democratic foundations of the nation itself.
In his remarks, Bagbin urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant, emphasizing the necessity of protecting the independence of all branches of government. He highlighted the crucial function of legislative autonomy in safeguarding the core values of democracy. As he put it, “The current issues may be likened to a power play, with the potential to undermine our democracy and the authority of Parliament.”
As discussions continue to unfold, the ramifications of this situation may resonate far beyond the walls of Parliament, raising questions about the future of governance in Ghana.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Contact: +233248250270/+233256336062 for your publications
