Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, has shared his thoughts on the recent Supreme Court ruling regarding the four vacant parliamentary seats, expressing surprise if Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin chooses to disregard the decision.
In an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Monday, October 21, Blay emphasized the importance of respecting the Supreme Court’s authority in interpreting Ghana’s laws. He noted that the apex court’s decision is final and binding on all parties involved, including Parliament.
According to Blay, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, as a lawyer, should understand the significance of the Supreme Court’s ruling and its implications on the parliamentary seats in question. He stressed that Bagbin’s role is to enforce the law, not to create controversy or conflict.
“I will be extremely surprised if the Speaker does not obey the Supreme Court decision because it is the Supreme Court that interprets laws, and its ruling is as simple as any other thing,” Blay stated. He added that the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government is crucial, but the Supreme Court’s role in interpreting laws is unparalleled.
Blay further emphasized that the Speaker’s initial declaration of the four seats vacant was overturned by the Supreme Court, and therefore, it is essential to await the court’s final determination on the matter. He believes this approach will maintain the rule of law and prevent unnecessary tensions.
Regarding concerns of a potential showdown in Parliament when it reconvenes on Tuesday, October 22, Blay thinks it is highly unlikely. He attributes this to the Speaker’s initial ruling being overturned by the Supreme Court, which should prompt Bagbin to respect the decision.
However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has taken a different stance. The party insists that its Members of Parliament will occupy the Majority side of the House when it reconvenes, citing the Speaker’s initial declaration of the four seats vacant. This declaration, according to the NDC, automatically grants them Majority status.
Blay’s comments come at a critical time, as the parliamentary session on October 22 is expected to be tense. The National Peace Council has already convened an emergency meeting to engage stakeholders and prevent potential disruptions. With the Supreme Court’s ruling and the NDC’s stance, the situation remains fluid, and the outcome of the parliamentary session remains uncertain.
