The recent declaration by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, that four parliamentary seats are now vacant has significantly altered the political landscape in Ghana.
This decision has led to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) assuming a majority position in Parliament, following a series of heated debates and legal maneuvers.
Background
The controversy began when former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu petitioned the Speaker to declare the seats of three New Patriotic Party (NPP) MPs and one NDC MP vacant.
This petition was rooted in Article 97(1)(g) of the Ghanaian Constitution, which mandates that MPs vacate their seats if they abandon their political party or choose to remain as independents.
The MPs in question—Cynthia Morrison, Kwadwo Asante, and Andrew Asiamah Amoako—had indicated intentions to contest upcoming elections either as independents or under different party affiliations, raising questions about their current parliamentary status.
The Speaker’s Ruling
On October 17, 2024, following intense discussions and a walkout by NPP members, Speaker Bagbin officially declared the seats vacant.
This ruling was met with immediate backlash from the NPP, with Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin arguing that the decision lacked merit since no formal petition had been submitted by a political party demanding such action.
He has since sought legal recourse at the Supreme Court to challenge the Speaker’s authority in this matter.
Implications of the Decision
With this ruling, the NDC now holds 136 seats compared to the NPP’s 135, effectively making them the majority party in Parliament. This shift is pivotal not only for legislative proceedings but also for the upcoming elections scheduled for December 2024.
The NDC’s newfound majority allows them greater influence over parliamentary decisions and enhances their strategic positioning leading into the elections.
Political Reactions
The reaction from both sides has been pronounced. The NPP’s walkout during parliamentary sessions signifies their discontent with what they perceive as an unjust ruling.
Conversely, NDC leaders have welcomed this development as a validation of their political stance and a step towards greater representation in governance.
The declaration of these four seats as vacant marks a significant turning point in Ghana’s political dynamics. As both parties prepare for the upcoming elections, the implications of this ruling will likely resonate throughout their campaigns and influence voter sentiment across the nation.
The unfolding legal battles and political maneuvers will be crucial to watch in the lead-up to December 2024 as both parties vie for control of Parliament amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions and strategic positioning.
