The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has called for calm and restraint following the Supreme Court’s directive on the contentious vacation of parliamentary seats. This development comes after the Speaker of Parliament declared four MPs’ seats vacant, sparking intense political and legal debate.
The controversy began when Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson invoked Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution, questioning the presumed vacation of the four MPs’ seats.
Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin contested the Speaker’s authority, prompting the Supreme Court to direct Parliament to let the affected MPs continue their duties until the matter is fully resolved.
CDD-Ghana acknowledges the complexity of the situation, emphasizing its unprecedented challenge to Ghana’s constitutional framework. With the 2024 general elections looming, the think-tank stresses the need for careful handling to prevent political unrest.
CDD-Ghana urges Members of Parliament, political parties, the Executive, and the media to act responsibly and adhere to constitutional principles.The organization calls for reflection on constitutional provisions governing parliamentary seat vacation, particularly in election years.
CDD-Ghana encourages the Speaker and Parliament to comply with the Court’s directions.The organization seeks swift resolution of outstanding cases seeking to disqualify candidates from the upcoming elections, ensuring fairness in the electoral process.
As an independent, non-profit think tank, CDD-Ghana promotes democracy, good governance, and inclusive development in Ghana and beyond. The Center plays a pivotal role in election monitoring through its leadership in organizations like the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) and the West Africa Election Observers Network (WAEON).
Source: oyerepafmonline.com/Bernard K Dadzie, Greater Accra Region
