Speaker Bagbin Denies Constitutional Crisis, Advocates for Legislative Independence

The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has sought to allay fears of a constitutional crisis, asserting that the ongoing tensions between Parliament and the Judiciary are part of a normal functioning democracy.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, November 6, Speaker Bagbin refuted claims of a constitutional crisis, emphasizing that the Parliament of Ghana remains operational and resilient despite recent courtroom disputes concerning legislative matters. “There is no constitutional crisis. Parliament is alive and working,” he affirmed, urging Ghanaians not to be swayed by misinformation.

The tension between the two arms of government escalated following a legal challenge by Effutu MP, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who questioned the Speaker’s findings in response to a statement made by Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson on an urgent public matter. Afenyo-Markin subsequently sought a court order to prevent the Speaker from making further pronouncements on the issue until the Supreme Court rendered a final decision.

In his response, Speaker Bagbin acknowledged the implications of continuous litigation on parliamentary proceedings, stressing that the conflict highlights a broader issue within Ghana’s democratic framework. He noted that the ongoing legal battles represent a “power play” between the arms of government, one that risks undermining the country’s democratic foundations.

Citing Articles 115 and 116 of the Constitution, Speaker Bagbin reiterated the inviolability of parliamentary proceedings and stressed that Parliament must remain free from judicial interference. He criticized the Judiciary for overstepping its bounds and implied that there may be collusion between the Judiciary and the Executive that threatens the authority of Parliament.

“Parliament weakens itself when its members rely on the courts to settle political matters,” Bagbin stated, expressing disappointment in some MPs who, in his view, undermine the institution by seeking judicial intervention in legislative affairs. “This could be one reason why Parliament and MPs are not respected as they should be,” he added.

The Speaker further called for greater legislative autonomy to safeguard Ghana’s democracy. He appealed for MPs to put national and constituency interests above partisan or personal concerns, emphasizing the need for patience, collaboration, and mutual respect within Parliament. Quoting former U.S. President Barack Obama, he remarked, “Africa needs strong institutions, not strong men.”

Looking ahead, Speaker Bagbin confirmed that Parliament would resume sitting on November 7, as scheduled. He also revealed that he had instructed the Clerk of Parliament to transmit the LGBTQ+ Bill to the President for assent, reinforcing Parliament’s authority in the legislative process. “The wheels of Parliament will continue to turn,” Bagbin.