By; Kekeli K. Blamey
A dramatic turn of events unfolded in Ghana’s Parliament on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, as the Minority Caucus, led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), occupied the seats typically reserved for the Majority, New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This bold move has heightened tensions between the two sides, which have been vying for control of the Chamber amid a series of legal and political disputes.
The Minority’s decision to take over the Majority’s seats is seen as a response to Speaker Alban Bagbin’s ruling on October 17, declaring four parliamentary seats vacant.
This ruling gave the NDC a numerical advantage, with 136 seats, while the NPP retained 135 seats.
The vacant seats include two from the NPP, one from the NDC, and one held by an independent MP.
The Speaker’s ruling was quickly challenged by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who filed an appeal with the Supreme Court.
On October 18, the Court intervened, staying the Speaker’s ruling and ordering that the affected MPs be allowed to continue their duties until a final decision is reached.
The situation has escalated into a power struggle, with the Minority asserting its newfound advantage and the Majority refusing to relinquish control.
Security has been heightened in anticipation of clashes, with restricted access to the public gallery and tightly controlled parking around the Grand Arena.
The MPs and parliamentary staff underwent thorough screening before entering the Chamber, and bodyguards were not permitted inside.
The Minority Chief Whip Governs Kwame Agbodza justified the occupation, citing the Speaker’s ruling and the current composition of Parliament.
“Our actions are justified based on the Speaker’s ruling and the numbers in Parliament,” Agbodza stated.
However, Majority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh expressed strong disapproval of the Minority’s actions.
“We will not stand idly by while the Minority tries to assert control,” Annoh-Dompreh warned.
The Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has urged both sides to exercise restraint and follow due process to resolve the impasse.
“We call on all stakeholders to prioritize the nation’s peace and stability,” the Center stated.
The standoff occurs ahead of Ghana’s 2024 general elections, and the Supreme Court’s final decision will significantly impact Parliament’s balance of power.
The potential for political instability and clashes between opposing factions remains high.
As the legal battle continues, the political drama in Parliament is expected to intensify, with both sides digging in for a prolonged confrontation. Whether the Supreme Court’s final decision will restore order or further deepen the divide remains to be seen.
