Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has issued a formal apology on behalf of the Parliament to the judiciary following what he described as discourteous and disrespectful conduct by some Members of Parliament during the vetting of the nominee for Chief Justice.
He acknowledged that certain comments and behaviour by MPs present at the Appointments Committee sitting were inappropriate and fell short of the standards expected of lawmakers.
Delivering an official statement in the House on Tuesday, November 11, the Speaker said he became aware of the incident after meeting with the leadership of the Queen Mothers Association, which brought the concerns to his attention.
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“Comments and conduct of some of the members during the proceedings may have appeared discourteous or disrespectful to distinguished members of the judiciary in attendance. Such conduct, though not the collective will of Parliament, is regrettable,” he said.
The Speaker stressed that the behaviour violated Parliament’s own rules of decorum.
“Order 133 cautions members against imputing improper motives or using words that are disrespectful or likely to offend. Our proceedings must always reflect the dignity and integrity of Parliament as a key organ of state,” he stated.
Bagbin reaffirmed Parliament’s unwavering respect for the judiciary, emphasising the constitutional requirement for mutual respect among the three arms of government.
“Parliament holds deep respect for the judiciary as a coequal arm of government. The doctrine of separation of powers requires that we relate with courtesy, respect, and restraint,” he noted.
He disclosed that he has directed the leadership of the Appointments Committee to ensure that future vetting strictly uphold the highest standards of civility, objectivity, and institutional respect.
Bagbin assured the judiciary that Parliament remains committed to strengthening inter-institutional cooperation.
“On your behalf, I extend our deepest apologies and assurances of Parliament’s continued respect for the judiciary and its esteemed members.”
The Speaker hinted at tighter enforcement of discipline in the House going forward and assured that he will come back on the issue of decency, discipline, and decorum.