The Speaker of Ghana’s parliament has suspended proceedings indefinitely due to chaotic scenes in the chamber over a dispute about which party holds the parliamentary majority. Last week, it was revealed that four MPs had switched allegiances, leading to Speaker Alban Bagbin declaring their seats vacant based on the constitution’s prohibition of MPs defecting. This decision has shifted the majority party status to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and is currently being contested in court.
Last Friday, President Nana Akufo-Addo’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) sought clarification from the Supreme Court regarding the Speaker’s interpretation of the constitution. The court requested the suspension of the Speaker’s declaration until a decision is made. The disruption continued during the first parliamentary sitting following the court’s directive, resulting in the suspension of proceedings.
This political turmoil has raised concerns among Ghanaians about its impact on the economy, especially as the cost of living remains a significant campaign issue for both parties’ presidential candidates. With Akufo-Addo stepping down after two terms, the upcoming elections are crucial for Ghana’s future direction.
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