Clash of Powers: MP Dafeamekpor Challenges Speaker’s Authority Over Vacant Seats
The MP's writ highlights deep divisions within the legislature as upcoming elections approach.
- Dafeamekpor files a writ in Accra High Court against Speaker Bagbin
- The MP cites Article 97(1)(g) and (h) of the 1992 Constitution to support his claim
- Supreme Court has temporarily stayed the Speaker’s declaration pending further review
Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the MP for South Dayi, has initiated legal action against Speaker Alban Bagbin in the Accra High Court concerning the controversy surrounding four vacant parliamentary seats.
Dafeamekpor claims the Speaker’s actions align with Article 97(1)(g) and (h) of the 1992 Constitution.
He is urging the court to compel Speaker Bagbin to affirm his declaration regarding these seats, which were vacated by legislators running as independent candidates in the upcoming elections.
Dafeamekpor asserts that any parliamentary sessions involving these members would be unlawful and illegal.
Additionally, he is seeking an order to bar Mr. Andrew Amoako Asiamah (Fomena), Mrs. Cynthia Mamle Morrison (Agona West), Mr. Kwadwo Asante (Sohum), and Mr. Peter Yaw Kwakye-Ackah (Amenfi Central) from participating in parliamentary activities.
On October 18, the Supreme Court granted a stay of execution on Bagbin’s declaration following a petition from former Tamale South MP Haruna Iddrisu, allowing consideration of the matter without immediate input from the Speaker or parliamentary authorities.
