Respect Court's decision, Afenyo-Markin tells Speaker, Minority

Accra, Ghana - Nov 12, 2024 - The Supreme Court of Ghana, led by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, has ruled in favor of Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin's suit, reinstating four Members of Parliament whose seats were previously declared vacant by Speaker Alban Bagbin.

The affected MPs are Andrew Asiamah (Fomena), Kwadjo Asante (Suhum), Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central).

Afenyo-Markin Urges Respect for Court Ruling

Speaking to the press after the ruling, Afenyo-Markin called on both the Minority and Speaker Bagbin to respect the court's decision, emphasizing the importance of democratic principles, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law.

He stressed that Ghana's reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa must be upheld.

Background of the Dispute

Speaker Bagbin had declared the four seats vacant on October 17, sparking heated debate within the House.

Afenyo-Markin subsequently petitioned the Supreme Court, highlighting the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful and lawful means.

Afenyo-Markin's Reaction

After the ruling, Afenyo-Markin expressed his expectation that all parties would respect the court's decision, prioritizing peace and stability in the country. 

“Democracy requires decency, and that is the path that the NPP took. We expect our colleagues from the other side and the Speaker to respect the decision of the court. Ghana shines in the eyes of Africans and we must hold that dearly.

“We should all respect the decision. All we want is peace in the country and that is what we chose and that is what we got,'' he stated.

Source: Lead News Online