Report by Pearl Amoako- 24/03/2024

In a statement, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, has expressed his concern over the President’s refusal to accept the transmission of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021.

Bagbin emphasized that the President’s actions not only deviate from democratic practices but also undermine the spirit of cooperative governance and mutual respect for the arms of government.

Describing this as part of a disturbing pattern emerging from the Executive branch, Bagbin highlighted the disregard for the foundational principles enshrined in the Constitution. He firmly stated that the President’s refusal to accept the bill goes against the constitutional and statutory provisions that guide Ghana’s legislative process.

Bagbin reminded the House that once a bill is passed by Parliament, it is the President’s duty to accept the bill and take the necessary action within the prescribed constitutional limits. He emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity and functionality of democratic institutions and warned that unchecked actions like these could set dangerous precedents.

The Speaker also criticized a letter issued by the Executive Secretary to the President, which he deemed as contemptuous of Parliament. The letter urged the Clerk to Parliament to refrain from transmitting the bill, citing pending applications for an order of interlocutory injunction. However, Bagbin pointed out that the Attorney-General’s advice to the President did not explicitly advise against receiving the bill from Parliament.

Highlighting the significance of Parliament as a crucial part of Ghana’s democracy, Bagbin stressed that any effort to obstruct its work disrespects the fundamental institution and threatens the principles of governance by consent and representation. He urged for a challenge against such actions to prevent future attempts to circumvent the legislative process and weaken democratic institutions.

The Speaker informed the House of the receipt of injunction applications related to the bill and noted that one application had already been dismissed by the Supreme Court. He also mentioned another process seeking to restrain the Speaker from proceeding with the vetting and approval of names submitted by the President until constitutional provisions are satisfied.