Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Bagbin, has officially declared four parliamentary seats vacant just two months before the December elections.
The decision affects Amenfi Central MP Peter Yaw Kwakye Ackah from the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and three New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament: Andrew Amoakoh Asiama of Fomena, Kojo Asante of Suhum, and Cynthia Morrison of Agona West.
The declaration follows an official petition submitted by NDC MP Haruna Iddrisu, invoking Article 97 (1)(g) of the Constitution.
The petition, which was filed by the former NDC Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu, challenged the eligibility of the MPs based on claims they had either left their political parties or were attempting to remain in Parliament as independent candidates.
The constitutional provision cited states that an MP must vacate their seat if they leave the party under which they were elected.
This led to extensive debates between the Majority and Minority sides of Parliament, with both sides presenting arguments for and against the petition.
Addressing the House during the session, Speaker Bagbin acknowledged the contentious nature of the matter.
He emphasized the need for careful deliberation and took two days to reach a decision, which he delivered on Tuesday.
