In a recent development within Ghana's political landscape, Haruna Mohammed, a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has publicly criticized Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, asserting that Bagbin should "shut up" and predicting that he will not retain his position in the forthcoming Ninth Parliament.
This statement comes amid heightened tensions in Parliament, particularly concerning the status of certain Members of Parliament (MPs) who have shifted their political affiliations.
The controversy intensified when Haruna Iddrisu, MP for Tamale South and former Minority Leader, petitioned Speaker Bagbin to declare the seats of four MPs vacant.
The MPs in question include:
- Cynthia Morrison, NPP MP for Agona West, who has filed to run as an independent candidate.
- Kwadwo Asante, NPP MP for Suhum, also filing to run as an independent candidate.
- Andrew Asiamah Amoako, independent MP for Fomena, who has filed to run as an NPP candidate.
- An unnamed MP from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who has filed to run as an independent candidate.
Iddrisu's petition is grounded in Article 97(1)(g) of the 1992 Constitution, which mandates that an MP must vacate their seat if they leave the party under which they were elected or choose to remain in Parliament as an independent member.
In response to the petition, Speaker Bagbin deferred his ruling, emphasizing the need for thorough consideration of the constitutional implications.
He stated, "Kindly give me these two days, and I'll come here with a well-written ruling. I will submit it to all of you, so that at the end of the day, justice would have not only been done but would have been seen to be manifestly done in this matter."
The Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, opposed Iddrisu's petition, arguing that no political party has formally requested the declaration of the seats as vacant.
He further filed an urgent legal action with the Supreme Court to block the Minority's efforts, seeking clarification on the status of the MPs involved.
Amid these developments, Haruna Mohammed's remarks have added fuel to the fire.
His assertion that Speaker Bagbin will not continue in his role in the Ninth Parliament reflects the deepening divisions and the high stakes involved as the nation approaches the next parliamentary term.
The situation remains fluid, with the Speaker's pending ruling and the Supreme Court's involvement poised to significantly impact the composition and dynamics of Ghana's Parliament.
As political actors navigate this complex scenario, the principles of constitutional adherence and democratic governance are being tested, underscoring the importance of due process and the rule of law in resolving such disputes.
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