Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director of the African Center for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), praised the Majority in Parliament for their decision to seek judicial interpretation of the Speaker’s ruling that declared four parliamentary seats vacant.
He noted that this move demonstrates a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that constitutional processes are followed.
By opting to involve the judiciary, the Majority is taking an important step toward clarifying the legal implications of the Speaker’s ruling and protecting the rights of the affected MPs.
Draman emphasized that this action could provide essential guidance on the matter, contributing to greater transparency and accountability within Ghana’s parliamentary system.
“So let the court come and let’s hear from the court. But I have also heard them say they are going to boycott Parliament but I don’t think that might be in the interest of this country, especially at a time when we are preparing for elections.
“I will appeal for cool heads for the Supreme Court to make pronouncements, and then everybody should then ensure that whatever the criminality from the court is, it is what we all will live by, and I think it will improve our democracy.”
Dr. Rasheed Draman
Dr. Draman further voiced his concerns regarding the timing of Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration that four parliamentary seats are vacant, a decision that has ignited intense political debate and increased tensions.
He questioned whether it was prudent to make such a significant ruling, particularly as the country gears up for upcoming elections.
Dr. Draman emphasized the importance of careful consideration before making such decisions, given their potential impact on the political landscape and parliamentary operations.
He acknowledged that while the legal framework permits the declaration of vacant seats, this type of decision should be approached with extreme caution.
Dr. Draman asserted that thorough deliberation is essential due to its far-reaching consequences for both the functioning of Parliament and the nation’s democratic processes.
Prof. Gyampo Calls on NPP to Reconsider Boycott
Furthermore, Professor Ransford Gyampo, a Political Scientist urged the NPP MPs to reconsider their decision to boycott Parliament.
He emphasized that the NPP Caucus should set aside their emotions and return to Parliament to actively participate in legislative matters.
Prof. Gyampo cautioned that the NPP’s boycott could disrupt governance and hinder the passage of critical bills, especially with elections just weeks away.
He pointed out that without the NPP’s involvement, essential government functions could be severely impacted.
“The best thing the NPP Caucus has to do is to be in Parliament and to ensure that they continue to contribute to parliamentary sittings. I don’t know what is going to happen because this means the government is essentially going to grind to a halt if Parliament is not going to do government business.
“And that is not going to augur well even though we have a few weeks to elections. We all know there are government businesses that would have to be tabled and discussed. So suddenly boycotting Parliament means all these tasks would not be done or it would be difficult”.
Professor Ransford Gyampo
Prof. Gyampo observed that sacrificing principles for political expediency often has consequences that eventually affect political processes.
He explained that the NPP misapplied and misinterpreted the law in 2020, and now they are experiencing the repercussions of the same misinterpretation. “They [the NPP] should accept the consequences, learn from it, and avoid being overly emotional”.
Prof. Gyampo encouraged the NPP to work collaboratively with the NDC Caucus to ensure that essential bills and parliamentary business are completed in the nation’s interest.
He asserted that boycotting parliamentary sessions and staying away from proceedings is not a productive or effective approach.
READ ALSO: Shatta Wale Thanks Fans For Gifting Him a GH¢1.3M 2024 Escalade
