In the constitutional action brought by Justice Abdulai over the constitutionality or otherwise of the First Deputy Speaker’s decision to vote when presiding over Parliament.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday unanimously gave a judgment to the effect that the 1st Deputy Speaker of Parliament or any Member of Parliament who presides as a speaker reserves the right to be counted to vote and may exercise his right to vote.
The Supreme Court reserved its reasoned ruling to be released on 11th March 2022. The reasoned judgment of the Supreme Court presided over by Justice Jones Dotse was delivered by Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi JSC.
The supreme court’s ruling has set many tongues wagging. The president of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has weighed in on it, saying parliament is not beyond the scrutiny of the apex court. In a series of tweets, on the other hand, former president, John Dramani Mahama has expressed his resentment towards the ruling.
“Shocking but not surprising. An unfortunate interpretation for convenience that sets a dangerous precedent of judicial interference in Parliamentary procedure for the future”
A unanimous 7-0?
Shocking but not surprising.An unfortunate interpretation for convenience that sets a dangerous precedent of judicial interference in Parliamentary procedure for the future. pic.twitter.com/mKesTDcBNR
— John Dramani Mahama (@JDMahama) March 10, 2022
Read the full judgement below:
SCANNED CERTIFIED TRUE COPY JUDGMENT-JUSTICE ABDULAI VRS ATTORNEY-GENERAL