Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has firmly stated that his caucus will fiercely defend their newly-claimed majority status, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that temporarily halts the decision of Speaker Alban Bagbin.
The controversy erupted following Speaker Bagbin’s declaration on Thursday, October 17, that four parliamentary seats were vacant. This move was prompted by three sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) announcing their intention to contest the 2024 general elections as independent candidates.
Additionally, Second Deputy Speaker Andrew Amoako Asiamah, who originally entered Parliament as an independent, revealed plans to run in the upcoming election under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) banner.
Bagbin’s ruling had the potential to shift the balance of power in Parliament, leaving the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus with a narrow majority—136 seats to the NPP’s 135. This shift would have solidified the NDC’s control, making them the dominant force in the legislative body.
However, the Supreme Court stepped in with a unanimous decision, staying the execution of the Speaker’s ruling. This move prevents the immediate declaration of vacant seats, preserving the current parliamentary balance for now.
Despite this legal setback, Dr. Ato Forson made it clear at a press conference on Sunday, October 20, that the Minority Caucus is unwavering in its resolve to defend what they perceive as their rightful majority. He stressed that his group would “jealously guard” their newfound status and remain firm in their pursuit of a fair representation in Parliament.
“The Speaker’s declaration has had a profound impact on the configuration of Parliament. As it stands, the NPP now holds 135 seats, and they are the minority group under the parliamentary rules. The NDC MPs now form the majority caucus in this 8th Parliament,” Forson asserted.
“We will jealously protect our new majority status, and we will not retreat, surrender, or bow to pressure. We have earned this position lawfully, and we are committed to defending it,” he declared.
Dr. Forson also seized the opportunity to criticize the Supreme Court’s involvement in parliamentary affairs. He argued that the judiciary’s intervention could undermine the principle of parliamentary independence, raising concerns about the balance of power between the different arms of government.
In the coming days, the dispute over parliamentary control is expected to intensify, as both sides prepare for a legal and political showdown ahead of the 2024 elections.
SOURCE: Obikyere Abigail Seyram
