Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has voiced his frustration over the increasing tendency of lawmakers to seek the Supreme Court’s intervention in parliamentary matters. He believes this growing practice undermines the authority of Parliament and reduces respect for the legislative body.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Bagbin called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to show greater loyalty to the institution of Parliament and limit their appeals to external judicial bodies. His comments were in response to Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s injunction application to the Supreme Court, following the Minority’s petition for the Speaker to declare certain parliamentary seats vacant.
Bagbin expressed concern that some MPs, particularly those in leadership positions, were turning to the judiciary to resolve issues that should be handled internally. He described this trend as damaging to Parliament’s reputation.
“Most worrying is that these proceedings are initiated by some members of Parliament, even leaders, who ought to know better,” Bagbin remarked.
He stressed that the frequent reliance on the judiciary reveals a lack of confidence in Parliament’s own processes, which he believes detracts from its authority and independence. “Parliamentarians should be loyal to Parliament rather than to the Supreme Court. When MPs turn to the courts at the slightest opportunity, it undermines Parliament,” he said.
Bagbin suggested that the continued appeal to external bodies could be one reason why Parliament and MPs are not respected. “This is why Parliament and its members are often treated with disdain,” he added.
The Speaker urged MPs to prioritize internal dialogue and collaboration to resolve issues within the House, thereby reducing the need for judicial intervention. He emphasized that matters such as the one currently before the Supreme Court could be settled within Parliament through constructive deliberations and compromises.
“Parliament weakens itself when its members continually seek the courts’ involvement in matters that are essentially political or governance-related,” Bagbin concluded, reaffirming his belief that Parliament must strengthen its internal mechanisms to protect its integrity and independence.
