The Minority Caucus in parliament has raised concerns over a potential constitutional crisis following the simultaneous absence of President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin from the country.
The Minority argues that the absence of these key officials without swearing in an Acting President violates Article 60 of the 1992 Constitution, which stipulates that the Speaker of Parliament should perform the functions of the President when both the President and Vice President are unable to do so.
In a press statement, the Minority described the situation as “alarming and unconstitutional,” warning that Ghana is left without a constitutionally designated Head of State.
“This administration continues to treat the Constitution as an inconvenience rather than a binding framework,” the statement read. The Minority also accused the government of “calculated and deliberate” disregard for the rule of law.
The absence of the President, Vice President, and Speaker occurred when President Mahama attended the African Union Debt Conference in Togo, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang received medical treatment in the UK, and Speaker Bagbin left the country on May 8.
According to the Minority, no measures were taken to constitutionally assign presidential responsibilities during their absence.
The Minority further highlighted that with the Chief Justice currently suspended, there is no legal authority in place to administer the oath of office, creating a vacuum of executive authority.
Below is the full statement from the minority.
