Ex-President J.A. Kufuor, Alban Bagbin (Speaker of Parliament)
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has urged Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin to demonstrate leadership and resolve the current impasse in the 8th Parliament to ensure a smooth exit.
His call comes amid a standoff revolving around which side holds the majority after Speaker Bagbin declared four parliamentary seats vacant.
These seats are Fomena, Amenfi Central, Suhum, and Agona West.
The Majority caucus, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, strongly opposed this decision, arguing it undermines their representation in Parliament.
They took their grievances to the Supreme Court, which intervened by issuing a stay on Mr. Bagbin’s decision, effectively reinstating the contested seats.
This development has escalated tensions between the Majority and Minority caucuses.
The Minority caucus seized the opportunity to take over the Majority side of the chamber, prompting Speaker Bagbin to adjourn the House after the Majority boycott.
Speaking in an interview with Accra-based Asempa FM last Friday, ex-President Kufuor expressed disappointment over the development, describing it as “embarrassing.”
According to him, the situation could tarnish the otherwise distinguished career of the Speaker, while emphasising the importance of Speaker Bagbin’s role in resolving the impasse.
“I will plead with the Speaker; he has the solution. With only about a month left in this Parliament life, he has to show leadership. You have served well. Parliament is in a mess, and if you’re not careful, it could affect your record,” the ex-President noted.
Former President Kufuor urged Mr. Bagbin to restore peace and order in Parliament, emphasising that with the current term nearing its end, it is crucial for the Speaker to prioritise stability and tackle the pressing issues at hand.
“We are looking forward to the President’s last address in Parliament. There are budget and transitional bills which need to be passed. All these things must be done within this period to successfully end the 8th Parliament, these are not happening,” he posited.
Mr. Kufuor called on the Speaker to get things return to normal in Parliament, saying, “You are the leader. So take responsibility and ensure that the impasse ends for the good of Ghana.”
“I’m pleading with the Speaker, as the head of Parliament, to protect his legacy. As a statesman with a place in the country’s history books, I urge him to avoid any actions that could tarnish his reputation,” the ex-President stated.
By Ernest Kofi Adu