Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has summoned Parliament to meet on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, amidst controversy over the Majority Leader’s request for a recall.
In a statement on Wednesday, August 7, Speaker Bagbin explained that the recall request did not meet the threshold for an emergency, citing logistical challenges and the need for MPs to attend to their constituency duties.
“A literal understanding of Article 112 (3) and Order 53, without consideration for the context and purpose behind these provisions, could lead to an absurd situation where Parliament is kept in perpetual meetings,” Speaker Bagbin noted.
He emphasized that MPs serve a dual role, representing their constituencies and attending to national duties, and constant recalls would disrupt this balance.
“The framers of the 1992 Constitution did not intend for these provisions to be used indiscriminately or in a partisan manner,” Speaker Bagbin cautioned.
Due to ongoing renovations in the Parliament Chamber, Speaker Bagbin announced that a suitable venue would be communicated soon.
“To address these practical concerns, and to allow sufficient time for preparations, I summon Parliament to meet on Tuesday, 3rd of September 2024, at a place and venue to be communicated as soon as one becomes available,” he stated.
