Ghana’s parliament has been indefinitely suspended following chaotic scenes over a majority dispute triggered by the defection of four MPs.
Speaker Alban Bagbin declared their seats vacant, citing constitutional restrictions on defections, effectively shifting the majority to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has challenged this interpretation at the Supreme Court, which directed the Speaker to suspend his declaration pending their decision.
During Tuesday’s first parliamentary sitting since the court’s directive, both NPP and NDC members attempted to occupy majority seats, leading to disruption.
NPP parliamentary leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin ultimately led his members in a walkout to avoid conflict, while NDC lawmakers responded with party songs and chamber marches.
The suspension has serious implications for government operations, preventing approval of crucial funding and legislation.
The situation reflects Ghana’s closely contested political landscape, where after the 2020 elections, both parties held 137 seats each, with NPP gaining majority through an independent MP’s support.
The current crisis emerged when candidate registration revealed the four MPs’ party switches. Public concern centers on the political turmoil’s economic impact, particularly regarding cost-of-living issues, as the country approaches December’s general election, where Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia faces NDC’s John Mahama.