Dr. Tony Aidoo, former Senior Presidential Aide, has voiced strong objections to the Supreme Court’s involvement in the recent declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant, describing it as a “procedural error” that could have serious implications for Ghana’s democracy.
Dr. Aidoo denounced the Court’s October 18 ruling, which granted a stay of execution on Speaker Alban Bagbin’s decision to declare the seats vacant. The ruling followed an ex parte application filed by some NPP MPs, allowing the affected members to continue their parliamentary duties pending a final decision.
Dr. Aidoo criticized the Court for acting without consulting Parliament or the Speaker, stating, “The Supreme Court committed a procedural error by not hearing from Parliament or the Speaker. This is an illegality, and the matter should be struck out.”
During an interview on Joy News’ PM Express, monitored by Starrfm, he underscored the judiciary’s role as an impartial defender of the Constitution, warning, “How can the Supreme Court turn itself into a political arena? It is the last bastion of defense for the Constitution and must realize that The law must be predictable, or there is no law.”
Dr. Aidoo also raised concerns over the Attorney General’s challenge to the Speaker’s ruling, questioning the inconsistency with the prosecution of James Gyakye Quayson for running for office while holding dual citizenship. “If the AG claims that filing nominations for a future election doesn’t vacate a current seat, why is Gyakye Quayson being prosecuted for filing nominations?” he asked.
He concluded by warning that inconsistent judicial decisions could destabilize Ghana’s Fourth Republic, urging the Supreme Court to uphold the Constitution and avoid politically influenced judgments.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Mary Asantewaa Buabeng