The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has encouraged the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin to fully comply with the Supreme Court's directions to stay the execution of the ruling that decades four seats vacant.CDD said it acknowledges the diversity of views in the public discourse surrounding this issue, particularly the legal opinions regarding both the Speaker's actions and the Supreme Court's intervention.Without a doubt, the think tank said, this situation presents a novel challenge to Ghana's constitutional practice.
It requires careful and sensitive handling to prevent the onset of constitutional and political turmoil, particularly as the country approaches the 2024 general elections."The Center strongly urges all Members of Parliament, political parties, the Executive, and the media to act with maximum restraint, a sense of responsibility, and respect for the letter and spirit of the constitutional principles and processes that underpin Ghana's democracy."It implores all stakeholders to prioritize the preservation of the nation's peace and stability and work diligently to avoid a recurrence of the regrettable scenes witnessed during the Speaker's election on January 7, 2021."To deescalate the current tension and uphold the rule of law, CDD-Ghana encourages the Speaker and Parliament to fully comply with the Supreme Court's directions, notwithstanding disagreements with the ruling.
The timely filing of the required legal documents will ensure the case proceeds swiftly, and help provide clarity and resolution.
The Speaker and Parliament also retain the option to seek a review of the Court's decision, should it find it necessary," a statement they issued said.Below is the full statement by CDD-GhanaThe Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has closely monitored recent developments in Parliament since October 15, 2024, when the Minority Leader, Hon.