NDC Constituency Organizers have lauded Speaker Alban Bagbin for his leadership during a challenging period in Parliament. They defended his decision to adjourn sittings ‘sine die’ to maintain order and prevent potential chaos surrounding recent parliamentary conflicts. The group criticized the NPP MPs for their walk-out and emphasized the need to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
A cohort of Constituency Organizers from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed commendation for Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, attributing the preservation of Ghana’s democracy to his leadership. The group defended the Speaker’s controversial decision to adjourn Parliament “sine die” prior to the recent recall, positing that this move was essential to mitigate potential chaos within the eighth Parliament, which they deemed on the verge of discord. Amarh Evans, the NDC Organizer for the Tema East constituency, articulated that the adjournment was not a rash act but a strategic response to address the ongoing impasse regarding four vacant parliamentary seats. He noted, “It isn’t as if the Speaker gleefully adjourned the eighth parliament … he adjourned sitting indefinitely in attempt to ensure that the impasse around the four vacant seats… was resolved.” During interviews, Evans challenged critics of Bagbin’s decisions, urging them to consider their reactions had they found themselves in a similar position, where one half of Parliament chose to vacate due to an unfavorable outcome. He suggested that without the Speaker’s intervention, the potential for both parties to engage in shameful conduct was high, given the dynamic tensions present. The group also asserted that blame for the parliamentary deadlock should rest on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament, who walked out following the Speaker’s declaration concerning the vacant seats. The Organizers expressed confusion over why the Speaker was vilified for fulfilling his role while the NPP MPs were not held accountable for their behaviour, which they characterized as sour grapes. Moreover, they acknowledged Speaker Bagbin’s efforts to uphold the principle of Separation of Powers amidst recent Supreme Court interventions. They claimed that his actions reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the democratic processes in Ghana. The Organizers praised the Speaker for his recent press conference, during which he clarified his decisions and highlighted the efforts of parliamentary leadership to resolve the ongoing tensions in a constructive manner. Isaac Paddy, Organizer for the Adenta constituency, expressed admiration for Bagbin’s depth of understanding of constitutional matters, reflecting, “…look at how the brilliant and hardworking Speaker Bagbin thoroughly explained the issues backed by the 1992 Constitution… Speaker Bagbin is saving our democracy and he is the best so far.”
The recent commentary by NDC Constituency Organizers arose from significant tensions within the Ghanaian Parliament, particularly concerning the adjournment following a Supreme Court ruling that impacted the legislative framework. The Speaker’s actions were scrutinized amid accusations of partisanship, leading to a need for defense from members of his party, the NDC. The dialogue surrounding the adjournment reflects larger concerns about respect for democratic processes and the responsibilities of parliamentary leadership in times of crisis.
In conclusion, the NDC Constituency Organizers’ praise for Speaker Bagbin underscores a significant defense of parliamentary decorum and democratic integrity in Ghana. They assert that his decision to adjourn Parliament was both prudent and necessary to foster negotiation and consensus among parties. The criticisms directed at the Speaker are challenged by highlighting the responsibilities of all members of Parliament to adhere to procedural guidelines during contentious periods. Furthermore, the acknowledgment of his commitment to the rule of law and constitutional principles reinforces the critical role leadership plays in maintaining the health of Ghana’s democracy.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
