Retired Supreme Court Justice William Atuguba has issued a stern warning to Alban Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, about the potential legal consequences if he fails to comply with a recent Supreme Court ruling. Justice Atuguba stated that Speaker Bagbin could face up to 10 years in prison or be barred from holding public office if he defies the court’s decision.
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court, in a 5-2 majority decision, overturned Speaker Bagbin’s declaration that four parliamentary seats were vacant, restoring the original status in the House.
In an exclusive interview with JoyNews’ Elton Brobbey, Justice Atuguba, who previously served as acting Chief Justice, emphasized that the Speaker is legally obligated to follow the Court’s ruling. “In light of this decision, he is bound by the judgment of the Supreme Court,” Justice Atuguba remarked. “The punishment is not necessarily a full 10-year prison term, but could result in up to 10 years of imprisonment or a similar period of disqualification from holding public office. If he were president, it would also open the possibility of removal from office.”
With Parliament currently suspended indefinitely, South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor noted that the House would need to reconvene and undertake specific procedural actions before the Supreme Court’s judgment could be fully enacted. He explained, “Parliament is not a one-person entity; it is a collective institution. Therefore, certain procedures must be followed to give effect to the Court’s ruling. It is not an automatic process.”
This case underscores the Supreme Court’s authority over parliamentary decisions and the importance of adherence to its rulings to uphold the rule of law.
Source: m.dailyadvent.com
