As tensions rise between the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress ahead of Parliament’s reconvening on October 22, 2024, the NDC has hinted at a potential military deployment to the legislative chamber.
The opposition party alleges that the government may be planning to station soldiers in Parliament, a move they strongly oppose.
The concerns follow a controversial decision by the Speaker of Parliament to declare four parliamentary seats vacant. Although the Supreme Court has temporarily stayed the ruling, the situation has heightened the political friction between the NDC and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
NDC Chief Whip, Kwame Governs Agbodza, issued a stern warning, vowing that his caucus would resist any attempt to bring military forces into the parliamentary proceedings.
Background to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Majority in Parliament Brouhaha
The Speaker, Alban Babgin’s original ruling followed a motion filed by former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, who invoked constitutional provisions that mandate MPs to relinquish their parliamentary seats if they switch political affiliations or contest elections independently.
The MPs affected by the ruling are Cynthia Morrison (Agona West), Kwadjo Asante (Suhum), Andrew Amoako Asiamah (Fomena), and Peter Kwakye Ackah (Amenfi Central).
Bagbin’s decision, based on these provisions, stirred controversy, leading to the legal challenge.
The Supreme Court of Ghana rejected the ruling and issued a stay of execution on a ruling by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, which initially declared the seats of four Members of Parliament (MPs) vacant.
The legal intervention temporarily halted the enforcement of Bagbin’s decision, pending further judicial review.
The minority who has remained resolute about now the majority has decided not to give up on their legal status as majority in parliament and hinted of occupying the majority seats in parliament on Tuesday October 22, 2024.
