SC ruling: Let’s quickly get back to ‘our primary duty’, serving Ghana’s interests – Afenyo-Markin extends ‘hand of friendship’ to NDC

Following the Supreme Court’s ruling today, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) side in Parliament, has extended “a hand of friendship” to members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) side, led by Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.

“The time has come for us to move beyond this episode and redirect our energies toward our primary duty – serving the good people of Ghana who elected us to represent their interests. Our nation faces pressing challenges that demand our united attention and collaborative effort,” the Effutu constituency MP said in a Tuesday, November 12, 2024, statement.

The NDC had claimed the majority status in Parliament when the Speaker, Alban S. K. Bagbin, declared four seats vacant because four MPs had revealed they would contest the December 7 election on tickets different from what they were serving on currently.

The Speaker’s declaration was challenged at the Supreme Court by an application by Afenyo-Markin, which was upheld today by a 5-2 decision read by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkonoo.

In his statement in reaction to the ruling, Afenyo-Marking said: “While we await the court’s full written reasoning, it’s decision on this constitutional question is clear and binding: the Constitution does not grant the Speaker the power to declare parliamentary seats vacant.”

“The landmark decision affects four prominent members of our House: Hon Cynthia Mamle Morrison (NPP, Agona West), Hon Peter Yaw Kwakye-Ackah (NDC, Amenfi Central), Hon Kwadjo Asante (NPP, Suhum), and Hon Andrew Asiamah Amoako (Independent, Fomena). While three of these members have filed to contest the upcoming December 7 elections as independent candidates, and Hon Asiamah Amoako has chosen to return to the NPP fold, the [Supreme] Court’s decision affirms their current standing as legitimate members of the 8th Parliament,” he noted.

“The Supreme Court’s decision should not be seen as a victory for one side or a defeat for another,” Afenyo-Markin urged. “Rather, it represents a triumph for our constitutional democracy and the rule of law. It reinforces the principle that in our Republic, every institution, no matter how exalted, must operate within the bounds of our Constitution.”

He rallied: “I call on all members of Parliament to view this moment as an opportunity for renewal. Let us approach our duties with fresh vigor, determined to work together in the spirit of constructive dialogue and mutual respect. The clarification provided by the Supreme Court should serve as a foundation for more effective parliamentary proceedings.

“Our democracy emerges stronger when we respect the wisdom of our Constitution and the interpretation of its guardians. Let us now focus on the critical work ahead, united in our commitment to Ghana’s progress and prosperity.”

Furthermore, noting his unflagging respect for Speaker Bagbin, he prayed same to call members back to the House since he had recently declared Parliament indefinitely suspended.

“To the Right Honorable Speaker,” Afenyo-Markin said, “I reaffirm my utmost respect for your office and your distinguished service to our nation. This judicial interpretation of our Constitution should strengthen, not weaken, the relationship between leadership and members of the House.

“With the highest regard for your wisdom and commitment to our democracy, I respectfully look forward to your exercise of your authority to reconvene Parliament, so that together, we may resume our sacred duty to the people of Ghana without further delay or discord.”

He emphasised: “As we return to our legislative duties as soon as possible, let us remember that we are first and foremost servants of the people. The voters who sent us to Parliament expect us to prioritise their interests above all else. They deserve nothing less than total commitment to advancing the development agenda that will improve their lives.”