In a dramatic turn of events following yesterday’s Supreme Court ruling, retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has dropped a bombshell – Speaker Alban Bagbin could face up to 10 years behind bars if he defies the apex court’s decision.
The Stakes Just Got Higher
Speaking exclusively to JoyNews, Justice Atuguba, who once served as acting Chief Justice, laid out the serious consequences Bagbin could face:
- Up to 10 years imprisonment
- A decade-long ban from holding public office
- Immediate removal if holding presidential office
The Context
This warning comes hot on the heels of the Supreme Court’s 5-2 majority decision that overturned Bagbin’s controversial declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant. The ruling has effectively reset the parliamentary arithmetic, but the real drama might just be beginning.
The Parliamentary Puzzle
Here’s where it gets interesting: Parliament is currently on indefinite suspension, and according to South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, implementing the Supreme Court’s ruling isn’t as straightforward as it seems. The House needs to reconvene and follow specific procedural steps before the judgment can take effect.
My Take
Having covered Ghana’s political landscape for over a decade now, I can tell you this is more than just another political squabble. We’re witnessing a critical moment in the relationship between our legislative and judicial branches. The next few days will be crucial in determining how this institutional standoff plays out.
What do you think? Should Speaker Bagbin comply immediately with the Supreme Court’s ruling, or does Parliament need to follow its own procedures first? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
