The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has failed to submit a statement of case in the Supreme Court regarding the legal dispute over vacant parliamentary seats.

There was a notable absence of representation from the Speaker’s side in court proceedings on Monday, November 11.

The case involves the eligibility of certain Members of Parliament to retain their seats after declaring their intention to run as independents.

The court had previously directed the Speaker to file the required documents by Wednesday, November 6, following a request for an extension by his legal representative, Thaddeus Sory.

Mr. Sory had cited the need for additional time to consult with the Speaker and gather necessary instructions, emphasising the importance of a well-prepared submission.

Alban Bagbin

However, despite this allowance, no statement was filed by the set deadline, raising questions over the Speaker’s position in the matter.

Meanwhile, Attorney-General Godfred Dame argued before the court that the Speaker’s involvement was unnecessary, as the Attorney General’s office was authorised to handle matters involving constitutional interpretation on behalf of public officers.

He urged the Supreme Court to proceed with hearing the case, stating that further delays would only prolong the issue and hamper effective legal proceedings.

The ongoing case seeks clarity on the constitutionality of retaining parliamentary seats when MPs declare independence or switch allegiance before an election.Source: Ernest K. Arhinful