The Majority Caucus in Parliament has stated that the Supreme Court ruling on Speaker Alban Bagbin's declaration of four parliamentary seats vacant has brought “much-needed clarity” to the complex constitutional matter that occupied the House.

According to the Majority Caucus, the Supreme Court’s decision asserts that the Speaker does not hold such power to declare parliamentary seats vacant.

In a press statement issued by the leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alexander Afenyo-Markin on Tuesday, November 12, it said the Supreme Court's decision should not be seen as a "victory for one side or a defeat for another. Rather, it represents a triumph for our constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

"It reinforces the principle that in our Republic, every institution, no matter how exalted, must operate within the bounds of our Constitution."

• Read also: Supreme Court rules: Speaker’s declaration of four seats vacant is unconstitutional

This comes after the Supreme Court in a 5-2 decision ruled that Speaker, Alban Bagbin's declaration of four seats as vacant is unconstitutional.

At a brief sitting on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo said the Speakers declaration cannot hold.

"By court in a majority decision of five-two, Lovelace Johnson JSC and Ahmadu Tanko JSC dissenting on the issue of jurisdiction, the plaintiff's action succeeds the full reasons and orders of the court shall be filed with the registrar by close of date, tomorrow, 13th, November 2024 the is the judgment of the court," the Chief Justice said.

In light of this, the Majority Caucus has extended a hand across the political divide in an appeal to unity, noting that the time has come for Members of the House to move beyond the impasse and shift their energies toward their primary duty of serving Ghanaians.

The Majority Caucus further expressed “utmost respect” for the Speaker’s office, emphasising that this judicial interpretation “should strengthen, not weaken, the relationship between leadership and members of the House.”

They urged Alban Bagbin to exercise his authority to reconvene Parliament so that members might resume their sacred duty to Ghanaians without further delay or discord.

Calling this a moment for renewal, the Majority Caucus encouraged Members of Parliament to return with a commitment to “constructive dialogue and mutual respect.”

They reaffirmed that the Supreme Court’s decision “serves as a foundation for more effective parliamentary proceedings” and that the nation’s democracy “emerges stronger when we respect the wisdom of our Constitution and the interpretation of its guardians.”