Vacant seats: Compliance of Supreme Court ruling non-negotiable – Godfred Dame

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has emphasized the importance of respecting the latest Supreme Court's ruling.

His remarks came after the Court overturned Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin's decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant, following a challenge from Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

On Tuesday, November 12, a seven-member panel, led by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, delivered a 5-2 majority ruling in favor of Afenyo-Markin. Chief Justice Torkornoo indicated that a detailed explanation of the ruling would be provided on Wednesday, November 13.

Speaking to journalists after the proceedings, the Attorney-General stressed that adherence to the Supreme Court’s ruling is crucial, warning that failure to comply could undermine the integrity of the democratic process.

“Whenever the court speaks, it’s a clear and emphatic order, even if it is a very narrow majority, that is the decision of the court. And that decision must be respected.

“It will result in the degeneration of society and the distraction of our democratic order for anybody at all to refuse to comply with the order of the Supreme Court and I think that is non-negotiable. It’s something that we must all respect.”

He commended the Supreme Court for stepping in, expressing disappointment over suggestions to withdraw the case.

“It’s very important the Supreme Court ruled on this matter. It’s necessary the Supreme Court came to a conclusion of this matter.”

-citinewsroom