Supreme Court ruling on vacant seats require Parliament’s structured response - Dafeamekpor

South Dayi Member of Parliament (MP) Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor shared insights into the procedural adjustments that Parliament will need to make following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the four MPs whose seats were declared vacant.

Speaking with host Kojo Yankson on the Super Morning Show on Joy FM, Dafeamekpor explained the careful steps required before affected MPs could return to their seats on the ministerial side of the chamber.

When asked how the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) lawmakers would handle seating arrangements once Parliament reconvenes, Dafeamekpor emphasized the importance of respecting institutional processes.

“We can’t just walk in and take our places,” he said, clarifying that a set of procedures will dictate how and when MPs return to their seats. “Parliament has to adjust according to the court’s decision, and we’ll follow that through. It’s not an immediate process.”

Dafeamekpor highlighted that Parliament functions as a collective, where decisions, particularly those involving court rulings, require the coordination of multiple roles and departments within the parliamentary structure.

“People often forget that Parliament isn’t just made up of MPs alone; there’s an entire system in place,” he noted. “From the Marshall, who oversees our security, to the parliamentary police, and then the clerk—all these individuals have specific duties that need to be completed for the court’s judgment to be implemented.”

Pointing to the procedural intricacies, Dafeamekpor explained that the Marshall of Parliament plays a crucial role in ensuring order as affected MPs rejoin the chamber. “The Marshall will need to formally admit these MPs back, given the unique situation,” he said, underscoring that the security protocols would be respected to maintain decorum.

Additionally, he mentioned the role of the Speaker, who he described as “the final arbiter” in Parliament’s adherence to court directives. “The Speaker’s role is pivotal here,” Dafeamekpor added. “He will oversee that each step aligns with the Supreme Court’s judgment and that these MPs are reinstated properly, so the ruling is respected fully.”

Dafeamekpor’s remarks reveal that while the court’s decision provides a directive, implementing it within Parliament involves a multi-faceted approach.

“There’s no rushing the process. This is a significant matter, and Parliament must carry it out in a manner that respects the institution and the court’s ruling,” he concluded, assuring the public that both order and law would guide the transition.