Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has once again adjourned the House indefinitely, citing a lack of parliamentary business and the absence of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Caucus from the Chamber.
The adjournment follows an unusual recall request made by the NPP Caucus.
The requests, dated October 22 and October 24, were made under Article 1123 of the Ghanaian Constitution and Order 53 of Parliament’s Standing Orders. However, the absence of the NPP Caucus created a procedural deadlock.
“And as you can see, one side of the House is completely empty,” Speaker Bagbin observed. “In view of this, we have, as usual, got a quorum to sit, but we have no business before us to transact.”
The Speaker explained that without the Business Committee’s report, no agenda could be set for parliamentary proceedings. He proceeded to adjourn the sitting indefinitely, underscoring the growing difficulties facing the House.
Political dispute over urgent public matters
The political standoff between the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Caucuses began when Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Leader of the NDC Caucus, addressed an urgent public matter in the House on October 15.
The Speaker communicated his findings on the matter on October 17, which members of the NPP interpreted as an official ruling.
Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Leader of the NPP Caucus, disagreed strongly with the Speaker’s communication.
He filed a motion with the Supreme Court, seeking to prevent the Speaker from further involvement in the issue raised by Dr. Forson until the Court reaches a verdict.
The Supreme Court has since scheduled November 11 for a ruling.
Seats declared vacant amid dispute
The controversy surrounding the Speaker’s communication reached a peak when he declared four parliamentary seats vacant on October 17.
This included seats held by Mr. Andrew Asiamah Amoako, the Second Deputy Speaker and Independent MP for Fomena; Madam Cynthia Morrison, NPP MP for Agona West; Mr. Kwadjo Asante, NPP MP for Suhum; and Mr. Peter Yaw Kwakye-Ackah, NDC MP for Amenfi Central.
As Parliament awaits the Supreme Court’s November 11 ruling, Ghanaian citizens watch closely as the unfolding political struggle disrupts legislative activity and fuels uncertainty within the House.
