Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has issued a formal apology to the Judiciary following the tense exchanges that marked the vetting of Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, on Monday, November 10.
Addressing the House on Tuesday, November 11, Mr. Bagbin expressed regret over the incident, reaffirming Parliament’s deep respect for the Judiciary as a coequal arm of government under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
“Parliamentary rules caution members against imputing improper motives or using language that is disrespectful or likely to cause offence,” he said. “The Standing Orders remind us that our proceedings must always uphold the dignity and integrity of Parliament as a key institution of state.”
The Speaker reiterated that the Judiciary’s independence is constitutionally protected and must not be undermined by any arm of government. He urged lawmakers to uphold the principle of separation of powers by engaging the Judiciary with mutual respect and restraint.
“I wish to reaffirm Parliament’s unwavering respect for the Judiciary as a coequal arm of governance under Article 125(1) of the 1992 Constitution,” Mr. Bagbin said.
He revealed that he has instructed the leadership of the Appointments Committee to take note of the incident and ensure that “in all future proceedings, the highest standards of civility, objectivity, and institutional respect are maintained.”
Mr. Bagbin emphasised Parliament’s longstanding cooperation and mutual regard with the Judiciary, assuring that the House remains committed to strengthening that relationship in service to the nation and its democracy.
“On your behalf, I extend our deepest apologies and assurances of Parliament’s continued respect for the Judiciary and its esteemed members,” he added.
Concluding his remarks, the Speaker cautioned MPs to maintain decorum and discipline in future proceedings, warning that he would enforce stricter measures to preserve order.
“I will come back on this issue of decency, discipline, and decorum—and this time, I am coming with the hammer, not the gavel,” he declared.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem