Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has voiced strong concerns over what he perceives as a coordinated attempt by Ghana’s Judiciary and Executive to undermine Parliament’s authority.
Bagbin’s statements follow a recent Supreme Court decision upholding an earlier ruling that prevents him from declaring four parliamentary seats vacant.
This decision has intensified the debate over the constitutional boundaries of the Speaker’s powers and the judiciary’s influence in parliamentary matters.
Initially, the Speaker filed a motion challenging the Supreme Court’s intervention, arguing that Parliament, as a separate branch of government, should have exclusive authority over its own internal decisions.
His motion also aimed to nullify a writ submitted by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, which called for judicial intervention to prevent further declarations from Bagbin regarding the disputed seats.
During a media briefing on Wednesday, Bagbin accused the Judiciary and Executive of encroaching on legislative independence, warning that such interference could destabilize Ghana’s democratic system.
He stressed that parliamentary authority, particularly over its internal matters, should not be subject to judicial oversight, as this sets a dangerous precedent and risks eroding the separation of powers outlined in Ghana’s Constitution.
The Speaker urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant in defending the independence of all government branches, emphasizing that legislative autonomy is vital for a strong democracy.
“These recent actions resemble a power struggle, threatening to undermine our democracy and the authority of Parliament,” he remarked.
“The Judiciary’s recent interventions in parliamentary matters are worrisome. It appears increasingly that the Judiciary and Executive are working together to weaken Parliament.”
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