Majority Chief Whip hails SC ruling on vacant seats as victory for democracy

The Majority Chief Whip Mr. Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has praised the recent Supreme Court(SC) ruling that overturned the Speaker’s decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant, calling it a victory for Ghana’s democracy.

Speaking to the media, Mr Annoh-Dompreh, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, expressed the Majority Caucus’s satisfaction with the court’s interpretation of Article 97 of the 1992 Constitution, which he described as essential for upholding the nation’s democratic principles.

“Taking the matter to the Supreme Court for a definitive Constitutional interpretation was the right course of action, and we are pleased that this issue has been resolved,” Mr Annoh-Dompreh remarked.

“This is not just a victory for the Majority Caucus but a triumph for democracy, the Judiciary, and the people of Ghana.”

He commended the Majority’s leadership, particularly Mr Alexander Afenyo-Markin, for pursuing the case.

Mr Annoh-Dompreh also expressed gratitude to the Ghanaian public for their patience throughout the legal proceedings, stating, “We took this issue to court to test our laws, and the Supreme Court has upheld its Constitutional role by providing clarity.

This landmark ruling will serve as an important reference for years to come.”

Emphasizing the importance of the separation of powers, Mr Annoh-Dompreh asserted that the judgment reinforces the boundaries between Ghana’s government branches.

“This decision affirms that no individual or institution is above the law.

It would be unthinkable for any party, including the Minority, to ignore a ruling from our highest court,” he stressed.

Reflecting on the case’s significance, Mr Annoh-Dompreh noted that the ruling strengthens Ghana’s commitment to democratic governance and the rule of law, reinforcing constitutional order.

He acknowledged recent challenges faced by Parliament, particularly around ensuring MP attendance for crucial votes and the execution of parliamentary business.

However, he assured the public that the Majority Caucus has been able to secure the necessary numbers when needed, aside from the loss of the speakership vote.

In response to suggestions that the government may face challenges in securing quorum, Mr Annoh-Dompreh highlighted that legislative success relies on cooperation from both the Majority and Minority sides of Parliament.

“Both sides must work together to ensure that the business of the House is carried out effectively,” he added.

Commenting on the role of the Speaker of Parliament, Mr Annoh-Dompreh expressed confidence that the Speaker would respect the Supreme Court’s ruling, warning that disregarding the judgment would constitute a serious constitutional violation.



“I expect nothing less than full compliance from the Speaker, and I trust all members will honour the decision,” he affirmed.

Addressing critics who argue that the ruling was politically influenced, Mr Annoh-Dompreh pointed out that the judgment was not unanimous, with two justices dissenting.

“This shows that the ruling was based purely on legal interpretation rather than political motivation,” he noted, reiterating that the decision was a victory for Ghana’s democratic principles and rule of law.

“This is a time for the country to celebrate the resilience of our institutions and the strength of our democracy. We must continue to uphold the Constitution and work together for Ghana’s progress,” he concluded.

Source: Classfmonline.com