Former President of Ghana, John Agyekum Kufuor, has urged Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Bagbin to exercise strong leadership amid the ongoing stand-off in Parliament over majority seating arrangements.
Kufuor expressed disappointment over the situation, describing it as an “embarrassing” impasse that could tarnish Bagbin’s otherwise distinguished career.
The stand-off stems from the Supreme Court’s recent decision to stay Bagbin’s earlier ruling, which had declared four parliamentary seats vacant.
Members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) disagree with Bagbin’s ruling, while those of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) continue to support it.
Bagbin’s ruling effectively tilted the balance of power in the House in favor of the NDC, who now claim the majority of the parliamentarians.
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision, NDC MPs continue to assert their “newfound majority” status in the chamber, occupying seats previously reserved for the NPP majority.
In response, Members of Parliament from the NPP, led by their leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, have refrained from entering the chamber, seeking to avoid potential physical confrontations.
Their absence has effectively stalled proceedings and highlighted the tense atmosphere surrounding the majority-minority debate.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, Kufuor emphasized the importance of Speaker Bagbin’s role in resolving the impasse and urged him to prioritize stability and decorum in the House.
He warned that if left unchecked, the current situation could damage Bagbin’s reputation and undermine his contributions to Ghana’s political landscape.
“I will plead with the Speaker of Parliament to step up and show leadership. What’s happening in Parliament is embarrassing. It can destroy his illustrious record,” he said.