In a major political development, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, has officially declared four parliamentary seats vacant. The affected constituencies are Amenfi Central, Fomena, Agona West, and Suhum.
The decision follows a formal petition submitted to the Speaker by Haruna Iddrisu, a prominent Member of Parliament from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Minority Leader. The petition triggered extensive debates and arguments within Parliament, with both the Majority and Minority sides presenting their cases.
Speaker Bagbin’s declaration is expected to spark political realignments as the vacant seats pave the way for potential by-elections. The ruling and opposition parties will now prepare to contest these key constituencies in the coming months.
During the session, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the constitutional significance of these provisions, stating, “By declaring these four seats vacant, we uphold the principles of accountability and safeguard the integrity of our Parliament.” He further pointed out that these provisions are meant to prevent “cross-carpeting” or “defection,” a practice that could undermine the political stability and trust within Parliament.
The Speaker’s decision has far-reaching implications, not only on the composition of Parliament but also on the political landscape ahead of the 2024 elections. Should the declaration remain unchallenged, the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) will see a shift in parliamentary representation, potentially affecting the balance of power.
Hon. Kwakye-Ackah, who was elected on the NDC ticket, and Hon. Asante and Hon. Morrison, both NPP members, have filed to contest as independent candidates in the upcoming elections. Meanwhile, Hon. Asiamah Amoako, an independent MP, is running on the ticket of the NPP for 2024.
Speaker Bagbin concluded by reaffirming that the constitutional mandate must be upheld at all costs, ensuring that MPs remain faithful to the political mandates granted to them by their constituents. This decision is likely to spark further debate, both within Parliament and the general public, as the country prepares for the 2024 general elections.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
