Speaker of Parliament, Alban Babin has criticised the use of the Supreme Court to undermine Parliament.

According to him, such a practice sets a dangerous precedence in the country’s democracy.

“These are dangerous precedence in our democratic journey,” he stated.

Addressing a press briefing on Wednesday, November 6, he said that the powers of the Judiciary end where the nose of Parliament starts, adding that happenings in Parliament must always remain in Parliament.

He added that the constitution is very clear on the freedom of speech and of proceedings of Parliament citing Articles 115 and 116.

He therefore believes that the courts must be hesitant to interfere in the proceedings and decisions of Parliament.

“In the celebrated case of Tuffuor and the Attorney General, the Supreme Court affirmed that happenings in Parliament are a closed book. “

Speaker Bagbin also expressed his frustration over what he describes as legislators’ growing habit of seeking the Supreme Court's intervention on parliamentary issues.

According to him, this situation undermines the authority and respect of the legislative body.

• Read also: ‘This is why Parliament is not respected’ – Bagbin criticises MPs’ tendency to involve Supreme Court in Parliamentary matters

He added that the reliance on the Supreme Court reflects a lack of confidence within Parliament itself and detracts from its independent authority.

He therefore urged lawmakers to demonstrate greater loyalty to Parliament and limit appeals to external judicial intervention.

He added, “Most worrying is that these proceedings are initiated by some members of parliament, even leaders of Parliament, who ought to know better.”

• Read also: Akufo-Addo and Judiciary have sinned against the Constitution – Bagbin

“Parliamentarians who are to be loyal to Parliament rather than to the Supreme Court run to the Supreme Court at the slightest opportunity to use the Supreme Court to undermine Parliament.”

“This might be one of the reasons Parliament and members of Parliament are not respected and are treated with disdain.”