Dr. Rasheed Draman, the Executive Director of the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA), has emphasized the need to address the concerns raised by the Minority in Parliament regarding the judiciary.
He believes that addressing these concerns is crucial to fostering trust and confidence in the judicial system. Dr. Draman also called for dialogue among Members of Parliament to discuss and find solutions to these concerns, despite the principle of separation of powers.
Acknowledging the separation of powers, Dr. Draman noted that recent orders from the judiciary to parliament have demonstrated that one branch of government can interfere with the work of another. He urged that the concerns expressed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) side should be promptly addressed for the benefit of the entire citizenry, emphasizing the importance of trust in the judiciary.
Regarding the Minority’s decision to boycott parliament in support of their members facing trials in court, Dr. Draman suggested that they reconsider their strategy. He pointed out that sustained boycotts may prove difficult, especially if the cases continue for a prolonged period. He highlighted the necessity for the NDC caucus to be present in parliament and proposed a reevaluation of their approach.
The NDC Minority in Parliament chose to stay away from parliamentary sittings on a specific day to accompany and show solidarity with two members of their caucus, the Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Assin North lawmaker James Gyakye Quayson, who were facing ongoing prosecutions. The decision was part of a series of actions taken by the caucus to address what they perceived as ongoing persecution. They expressed their unity with their colleagues and emphasized that cooperation would be affected during these circumstances.
Dr. Ato Forson had previously announced that the caucus would stand in solidarity with James Gyakye Quayson until the conclusion of his trial. This statement was made immediately after Mr. Gyakye Quayson was sworn in as an MP, following a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his earlier election victory.
Dr. Ato Forson stated that the entire Minority Group would accompany their colleague to court on the days of his trial and would refrain from participating in parliamentary business during those times. The Minority emphasized that cooperation would be challenging under the ongoing trial situation.
The case was initially scheduled at the High Court on Tuesday, July 4, but was adjourned to Thursday, July 6. The Minority expressed their concerns about the impact on cooperation in the House due to the ongoing trial, emphasizing that challenges in cooperation would arise amidst perceived persecution.
Source – 3news.com
