The Speaker of Parliament Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has condemned members of Parliament for their uncontrollable interest to invite the court into matters of the legislative house.
The speaker argues that the growing habit of MPs always pushing Parliament against the court undermines the jurisdiction, powers, and respect of Parliament.
Speaking in a media engagement on Wednesday, 6th November 2024, the speaker calls on members of Parliament to desist from excessive involvement of the court in parliamentary business and remain loyal to the house of legislation.
This follows the decision by the Majority Leader Hon Afenyo Markin’s injunction application to stay the speaker from declaring the four seats of some members of Parliament vacant.
Mr. Bagbin highlighted this and other recent occurrences where members of the Majority have sought the Supreme Court’s intervention to address issues within Parliament, labeling this pattern as harmful to the institution’s reputation.
“What is most concerning is that these legal actions are initiated by some parliamentarians, including leaders of Parliament, who should possess a better understanding,” he remarked.
Alban Bagbin noted that this dependence on the Supreme Court signifies a lack of faith within Parliament itself and undermines its independence and power.
Legislators who pledge allegiance to Parliament instead of the Supreme Court tend to approach the Supreme Court at the slightest chance to utilize it for undermining Parliament,” he stated.
The Speaker called on MPs to acknowledge their primary responsibility to Parliament, implying that enhancing Parliament’s internal processes could limit outside interference and strengthen the institution’s credibility with the public.
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“Parliament diminishes its own authority when its members continuously turn to our courts for resolutions or to seek favorable rulings on not only legal issues but also on political and governance matters. I firmly believe that the issue currently before the Supreme Court can be resolved within Parliament through thoughtful discussions and compromises.”
“This might be one of the reasons Parliament and members of Parliament are not respected and are treated with disdain.”