The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has adjourned parliamentary proceedings indefinitely amid disputes over which caucus holds majority in parliament.
This course of action follows a Supreme Court order barring the speaker from implementing his declaration of some four seats vacant. The public had been in utmost anticipation of the speaker’s next step following the injunction from the SC, which sparked various legal debates on separation of powers.
Tension graced parliament as MPs anxiously awaited the arrival of the speaker to begin proceedings. MPs from the National Democratic (NDC) Caucus, the newly declared majority side decided to seat on the right-hand side of the speaker, a designated place for the Majority in parliament. Also, supporters of the NPP had been busssed to the premises of parliament. They claimed they were there to protect their party and the parliament.
Meanwhile, MPs from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) caucus decided to stage a walk-out led by their leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin. According to Alexander, the walk-out is to avoid altercations with the NDC in the House, adding that Ghana is a peaceful country and should be kept as such.
“We didn’t cause commotion here. We left quietly and told Mr. Speaker that the right place to express those grievances would be in court. So, we expect our brothers and sisters on the NDC minority side to do the needful. But it will all be for Mr. Speaker to make a final determination. The nation is looking up to Mr. Speaker; with all his years in politics, this is a crucial moment for him to add weight to what we have done to preserve the peace,” he said while addressing the media on their way out.
The speaker arrived hours after the NPP caucus’ walk-out.
In his delivery, the speaker acknowledged receipt of a Supreme Court injunction order on his rule on the vacant seats. Moreover, he established that although they have enough members available to conduct the day’s business, the house lacks the requisite number of MPs to make a decision, according to Article 104.
“Article 104 (1) says, except as otherwise provided in this constitution, matters in parliament shall be determined by the vote of the majority of members present and vote with at leas half of all members present in parliament.
“Honourable members, we don’t have at least, half of all members present.”
“Consequently, in view of the current circumstances, the fact that there is a question on the composition and the constitution of parliament and having regard to public interest, and the exigencies of the state of affairs in parliament, i will proceed to, in accordance to standing orders fifty-nine, adjourn the house indefinitely,” he stated.
Source: Dehotpress
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