- 4 MPs Risk Losing Seats Over Independent Runs
- Article 97 (1)(g) Mandates Seat Vacancy
- NDC Could Become Majority Party
- Legislative System Needs Reassessment
Constitutional lawyer Justice Abdulai has weighed in on the controversy surrounding four Members of Parliament (MPs) who risk losing their seats. These MPs have declared their intention to run as independent candidates in the upcoming elections.
According to Justice Abdulai, the constitutional provision to declare their seats vacant is clear and leaves minimal room for ambiguity. This development follows the announcement by former Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu.
Iddrisu intends to invoke Article 97 (1)(g) of the Constitution to vacate the seats of three Majority MPs and one NDC MP. The provision states that an MP shall vacate their seat if they leave the party they were elected under.
Alternatively, this applies if they seek to remain in Parliament as an independent candidate. Justice Abdulai shared his insights on Joy FM’s Midday News.
He noted that past precedents and current circumstances make it challenging to argue ambiguity in interpreting the provisions. Abdulai believes the Speaker will find it easy to declare them persona non-grata in Parliament.
If the motion succeeds, the NDC would become the Majority party. This would significantly shift the balance of power in the House. Currently, Parliament comprises 138 Majority MPs and 137 Minority MPs.
Despite the timing – less than two months to a general election – Justice Abdulai dismissed concerns. He emphasized that this would not weaken parliamentary representation.
Instead, Abdulai called for a reassessment of the legislative system. Most people enter parliament with the wrong intentions.
He stressed that many MPs prioritize personal interests over serving the house, representing their people, and driving development.
Justice Abdulai’s stance highlights the need for accountability and adherence to constitutional provisions in Ghana’s parliamentary system.
