The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has asserted his belief in the supremacy of the Constitution over that of the judiciary or the Supreme Court.
According to him, the Constitution, rather than the judiciary or the Supreme Court, should hold ultimate authority.
“I believe in the supremacy of the Constitution. Mark my words, the supremacy of the Constitution, not the supremacy of the judiciary or Supreme Court,” he stated while addressing the media in Parliament on Wednesday, November 6.
The Speaker stressed the importance of a dynamic Parliament that embodies and respects the political will of the people saying; “I also believe in a vibrant Parliament that is respected and accorded its due on political questions as long established by law and decided cases.
“A Parliament that understands, reflects and embodies the will of the people and defends its constitutional prerogatives only works in the interest of Ghana and Ghanaians, not a rubber stamp Parliament subservient to the whims and caprices of the executive and or the judiciary,” he said.
Speaker Bagbin emphasised that Parliament’s role is fundamental in holding the executive accountable, stating, Parliament must be strong to perform its legislative function, and the indispensable function of holding the president to account.
He acknowledged the role of other institutions and the public in governance but underscored that Parliament alone possesses the “constitutional and legal mandate” to hold the executive accountable.
“The public, media, civil society and other partners in governance, can make constructive inputs and criticize actions of commissions of arms of government, but these bodies are not constitutionally and legally structured and mandated to hold the executive account,” Mr Bagbin said.
The Speaker of Parliament shared his vision for a Parliament that prioritises the nation’s interests over partisan agendas.
“My dream therefore is a patriotic one, the existence of a firm, effective, efficient and responsive Parliament whose members place national and constituency interests ahead of narrow, partisan or personal interests.”
