Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablekwa, expressed his agreement with former President John Dramani Mahama and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, that a particular case should never have been brought to court.
In an interview with Citizen Kofi, Ablekwa explained that one of the judges presiding over the case, Justice Gaewu, previously served as an NPP parliamentary candidate for Ho. During one of the hearings, the Speaker’s lawyer argued that this was a highly politicized matter involving the NPP and NDC and suggested that Justice Gawu should recuse himself due to a potential conflict of interest. The lawyer pointed out that, had Justice Gaewu won his election, he would likely be aligned with the NPP in Parliament. However, the judge declined to step down and remained on the case.
Hon Ablekwa voiced his concern that the judiciary has become increasingly partisan, suggesting it is now subject to political influence that undermines its independence. He stressed the importance of judicial impartiality, especially on matters with significant political implications.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablekwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, responded critically to recent remarks by Hon. Afenyo-Markin, who had allegedly claimed that his spiritual beliefs prevent him from sitting on the Minority side of Parliament. Hon Ablekwa dismissed these claims, stating, “Who cares about his occultic beliefs or antics? Why should our democracy be threatened because of his personal beliefs?”
Hon Ablekwa expressed frustration that such issues could lead to gridlock in Parliament, potentially stalling the work of the nation’s legislative body. He argued that it is essential to uphold the principle of separation of powers, and for Parliament to maintain its autonomy from other branches of government.
Hon Ablekwa emphasized that rulings made by the Speaker of Parliament should be respected, adding that the judiciary’s interference in parliamentary matters undermines democratic principles.
According to Hon Ablekwa, the only way forward is to ensure that Parliament functions independently, without external pressures or influences. He underscored the need to resist what he described as “judicial overreach” that threatens the foundation of democratic governance in Ghana.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
