Ghana’s Supreme Court has sparked controversy by turning down an appeal from Speaker Alban Bagbin to authorize by-elections for three parliamentary seats that became vacant after a fatal accident claimed the lives of three MPs. The ruling has prompted intense criticism from both legal experts and political observers, including noted lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata.
Speaker Bagbin had pushed for the elections to avoid legislative paralysis and ensure that every constituency maintains its voice in Parliament. However, the court maintained that it lacked the legal capacity to instruct the Electoral Commission to proceed with the elections.
Tsikata strongly opposed the verdict, calling it constitutionally flawed and a disservice to democracy. He argued that failing to hold by-elections deprives entire communities of their right to be represented, which contradicts the spirit of Ghana’s Constitution. “This decision is not just technical—it undermines the very foundation of our democracy,” he said.
He stressed that this issue carries significant democratic weight and should not be reduced to a matter of legal procedure. The absence of elected representatives, he warned, could stall key parliamentary actions and risk broader instability.
With pressure mounting, Tsikata urged state institutions to take immediate action to restore parliamentary balance. As the nation watches this debate unfold, many are demanding assurances that the democratic process remains intact and responsive to the will of the people.
