In a recent statement addressing the challenges facing Parliament in Ghana, Rt. Hon. Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, asserted the resilience and functionality of the country’s democratic institution. He began by emphasizing the importance of democracy, quoting former President Barack Obama on the necessity to actively defend democratic principles. Bagbin reassured Ghanaians that there is no constitutional crisis, emphasizing that Parliament is operational and not dissolved. He called for patience and cooperation from all stakeholders, highlighting the importance of the rule of law in a successful democracy. The Speaker urged citizens to remain calm and allow established processes to address the current issues without resorting to panic or divisive rhetoric.
The background to the current challenges was elucidated, centering on a disagreement that erupted following a statement made by Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, which was met with strong opposition from Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Bagbin pointed out that the situation escalated to legal proceedings initiated in the Supreme Court. He stressed the significance of this legal case, noting its implications for Ghana’s parliamentary democracy and suggesting that the discussions around it have not sufficiently addressed the broader political repercussions. The Speaker underscored the essence of political discourse, encouraging a focus on the core issues at stake while recognizing the complexity of the current political landscape.
The Speaker characterized the ongoing tensions as a “power play” between the government branches, and he warned that these conflicts could severely undermine Parliament’s authority. He reiterated the need for collaboration and inclusivity, reflecting on the voters’ preference for greater cooperation rather than a divisive winner-takes-all approach. With Parliament evenly split between the two major political parties—NDP and NPP—Bagbin acknowledged the challenges inherent in leading a hung Parliament while striving to maintain national interests above partisan agendas. He urged members of Parliament to transcend individual political loyalties and work towards a unified national vision.
Addressing the role of the judiciary and its perceived encroachment upon parliamentary functions, Bagbin highlighted the constitutional provisions that provide for parliamentary privilege and immunity. He cited specific articles from the Constitution affirming that parliamentary deliberations should remain insulated from judicial scrutiny. He expressed concern about the growing trend of Parliamentarians seeking judicial intervention in political matters, which he believes is detrimental to the institution’s integrity. This reliance on the courts for political disputes threatens to erode Parliament’s authority and public respect, stifling its crucial role in governance.
With a call for a transparent and strong parliamentary system, Bagbin expressed a vision for a Parliament that effectively holds the executive accountable. He suggested that invoking the courts to resolve legislative conflicts could weaken the legislative branch, thereby disenfranchising the representatives of the people. Citing past instances where political questions remained within the parliamentary domain without escalating into the judiciary, he urged for a return to established norms of handling conflicts internally. He believes the supremacy of the Constitution rests with Parliament and calls for a unified and proactive legislative body that prioritizes national interests over individual party agendas.
In closing, Bagbin reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring Parliament remains a vibrant institution dedicated to the will of the Ghanaian people. He called upon all branches of government to collaborate for the country’s greater good while encouraging dialogue and compromise over confrontation. The Speaker acknowledged that parliamentary business would resume promptly and affirmed his readiness to work with the executive to fulfill government objectives. Overall, he expressed hope for a stronger democratic future through joint efforts, highlighting the vital role of every Ghanaian in nurturing the progress and integrity of their democratic institutions.
