Parliamentary Impasse: There is no order against the Speaker - Thaddeus Sory

Accra, Ghana - Nov 15, 2024 - Thaddeus Sory, the counsel for Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, has made a crucial clarification regarding the Supreme Court's recent decision, stating that, in essence, the court's ruling does not imply any directive or order against the Speaker concerning the four parliamentary seats initially declared vacant.

The Supreme Court's judgment, delivered on November 14, established that a Member of Parliament (MP) is only considered to have vacated their seat if they switch political parties and continue serving under the new affiliation.

This ruling was made in favor of a suit filed by Majority Leader Alexander Afeyo-Markin.

Key Takeaways from the Supreme Court's Ruling:

- Vacating Parliamentary Seats: An MP's seat is only vacated if they change parties within Parliament and continue serving under the new party.
- Constitutional Application: Articles 97(1)(g) and (h) apply solely to the current parliamentary term, excluding future terms or scenarios where an MP seeks re-election under a different party.
- No Order for Reinstatement: The court did not issue any order mandating the MPs' return to Parliament or instructing the Speaker to recognize their reinstatement.

Sory emphasized this point on Facebook, stating, "There is no order saying that the MPs must be allowed in Parliament or order directing that Parliament recognize the said MPs." Additionally, he noted that "The order staying execution of the Speaker's ruling is NOW SPENT".

Source: Lead News Online