Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director of the African Center for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), has expressed concerns about the timing of Speaker Alban Bagbin’s declaration that four parliamentary seats are vacant—a move that has sparked intense political debate and heightened tensions.

The declaration, made by Speaker Bagbin on October 17, affected the seats of Cynthia Mamle Morrison (NPP, Agona West), Kwadjo Asante (NPP, Suhum), Peter Kwakye-Ackah (NDC, Amenfi Central), and Andrew Amoako Asiamah, an independent MP from Fomena who recently rejoined the NPP.

Bagbin’s decision followed accusations that these MPs had breached constitutional provisions, prompting the Speaker to rule that they vacate their seats.

In an interview following the declaration, Dr. Draman raised concerns about the timing of such a significant ruling, especially as the country prepares for upcoming elections.

He questioned whether this was the right moment for such a decision, given the potential consequences for the political landscape and parliamentary operations.

Dr. Draman stressed that although the legal framework allows for the declaration of vacant seats, this kind of decision should be handled with extreme care and thorough deliberation, considering the far-reaching implications for both the functioning of Parliament and the nation’s democratic processes.

“I think the right thing is what their [the Majority] leader has said they have done. They will seek the interpretation of the court.

“So let the court come and let’s hear from the court. But I have also heard them say they are going to boycott Parliament but I don’t think that might be in the interest of this country, especially at a time when we are preparing for elections.

“I will appeal for cool heads for the Supreme Court to make pronouncements, and then everybody should then ensure that whatever the criminality from the court is, it is what we all will live by, and I think it will improve our democracy.”