The Supreme Court on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, ruled that a Deputy Speaker of Parliament can be counted during the formation of a quorum for parliamentary decision-making and can also participate in voting while presiding.

The decision by the Apex Court has generated mixed reactions.

While the Majority Caucus has described it as a ‘refreshing’ outcome, many, particularly the Minority in Parliament, say the ruling is absurd and could destroy the processes in the House.

Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu believes the ruling is a travesty of parliamentary justice.

He further alleged that “this is a judicial support of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s E-Levy that he is labouring to pass.”

The Minority Chief Whip in Parliament, Muntaka Mubarak also described the ruling by the Apex Court as an “attack on the legislature.”

Speaking on the back of the ruling, Muntaka Mubarak noted that the Minority will seek a review of the ruling by the Court.

The First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei-Owusu on the other hand welcomed the ruling.

Addressing the media in Parliament on Wednesday, he said the decision by the Supreme Court is ‘refreshing’ and affirms his earlier decision to join his colleagues on the Majority side to approve the 2022 Budget while presiding over proceedings of the House.

In spite of his reaction, former President John Mahama described the verdict as “shocking but not surprising.”

He said the unanimous ruling by the Supreme Court sets a dangerous precedent for the country’s Parliamentary procedure.

On Saturday, Newsfile delved into the matter and discuss the implications of this verdict on the activities of the House should it be implemented.

Again, in the past few weeks, there have been various development including hikes in fuel prices, an increase in transport fares and the rising cost of goods and services.

Ghanaians are already lamenting over the economic hardships due to these developments.

Newsfile therefore discussed the necessary actions government and individuals need to take to survive the rising cost of living.