John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has voiced his belief that Ghana’s recent parliamentary impasse could have been more effectively resolved through dialogue, avoiding the need for judicial intervention. Speaking to Christian leaders in Kumasi on Monday, November 11, Mahama emphasized the value of negotiation in handling political conflicts, suggesting a collaborative approach would have better served all parties.
This call for dialogue comes amid an ongoing legal standoff regarding the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin’s, decision to declare four parliamentary seats vacant due to alleged constitutional violations by certain MPs. The declaration has fueled significant political tension, prompting the Supreme Court to halt the enforcement of Bagbin’s ruling, with a final decision expected on November 12.
Mahama questioned the reliance on the judiciary, advocating instead for a political solution led by the presidency. He argued that if he were president, he would bring together both sides of parliament, along with the Council of State and the Speaker, to collaboratively resolve the issue.
“I believe this is a matter that calls for a political solution rather than a legal one,” Mahama stated, adding, “A decision from the Supreme Court may not necessarily bridge the divide between the arms of government.” He suggested that dialogue would be a more sustainable way to address the current tensions and strengthen democratic governance.
