Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has announced the suspension of the consideration of the President's Ministerial nominations, citing the need to uphold the rule of law amidst a legal challenge.
In a formal communication to the House, Speaker Bagbin referenced a court process filed by Rockson-Nelson Etse K. Dafeamekpor against the Speaker and the Attorney-General, seeking to restrain Parliament from proceeding with the vetting and approval of the President's nominees. Until the Supreme Court determines the application for interlocutory injunction, the House is unable to continue considering the nominations.
The Speaker's communication also addressed a letter from the Executive Secretary to the President, Nana Asante Bediatuo, which he deemed contemptuous of Parliament. The letter instructed the Clerk to Parliament to cease transmitting the Human Sexual Values Bill, 2021, citing pending applications for an injunction. However, the Attorney-General had advised the President to make a decision on the bill after the determination of the injunction applications, not to refuse its transmission.
Speaker Bagbin emphasized the constitutional mandate for the President to accept bills transmitted by Parliament and take necessary action within prescribed limits. He underscored the importance of upholding democratic practices and preventing attempts to obstruct parliamentary processes.
The Speaker urged adherence to constitutional frameworks and the principles of good governance, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all branches of government and citizens to preserve and strengthen democracy. He affirmed Parliament's commitment to the existing legal framework and rejected attempts to unduly hinder its work.
In conclusion, Speaker Bagbin reaffirmed Parliament's stance against the Executive's refusal to accept the bill for consideration, emphasizing the need for adherence to constitutional provisions and the rule of law.