Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Emmanuel Tornyi
Published on 2024-03-21 07:01:20
Following Parliament’s decision to suspend the consideration of the President’s nominees, Speaker Alban Bagbin announced the halt in the approval process due to an interlocutory injunction filed by MP Rockson-Nelson Etse K. Dafeamekpor. This decision was further influenced by a directive from the presidency, referencing ongoing legal proceedings at the Supreme Court. Bagbin emphasized the significance of upholding legislative authority and democratic principles amidst these challenges, expressing concerns over the erosion of foundational checks and balances. He acknowledged the receipt of legal documentation related to the injunction motion filed by MP Dafeamekpor.
However, Afenyo-Markin criticized Speaker Bagbin’s judgment and language when referring to the President. He argued that while disagreement is acceptable in a democracy, denigration is not. Afenyo-Markin stated, “Mr. Speaker went beyond expressing disagreement and rather pronounced judgment on what in his view was wrong. Mr. Speaker did not only stop there, he also used very unsavory words to describe Mr. President.” Highlighting the right to disagree on views but not to denigrate others in a democracy, Afenyo-Markin disagreed with Bagbin’s position on the President’s actions. He pointed out that the President’s letter to Parliament focused on the ongoing court process and Parliament’s involvement, indicating that it should not affect parliamentary proceedings. Afenyo-Markin also emphasized the importance of leadership guiding parliamentary conduct and expressed disappointment in the lack of opportunity for leadership to comment before the House was adjourned.
During a morning session, the House leadership discussed the items on the agenda, finishing some but postponing others that required Speaker Bagbin’s presence. Afenyo-Markin found it concerning that despite Bagbin expressing his views on the presidency’s letter, he adjourned the House without allowing leadership to provide input. He emphasized the need for reflection and dialogue in resolving the impasse, calling on Speaker Bagbin to consider the way forward for the nation.
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, played a pivotal role in the decision to suspend the consideration of the President’s nominees. The interlocutory injunction filed by MP Dafeamekpor and the directive from the presidency regarding legal proceedings at the Supreme Court prompted Bagbin to uphold legislative authority and democratic principles. While Bagbin faced criticism for his judgment and language towards the President, the importance of respectful discourse in a democracy was underscored by Afenyo-Markin. As the leadership of Parliament navigates the suspension of nominee consideration and reflects on the way forward, dialogue and collaboration remain essential in addressing the current impasse.
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