Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has formally apologised to members of the judiciary who witnessed a tense exchange between Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga during the vetting of President Mahama’s Chief Justice nominee, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, on Tuesday.
The disagreement, arising from sharp political differences, led the Minority to stage a walkout from the proceedings.
Addressing Parliament, Speaker Bagbin reminded lawmakers of the need to maintain decorum and discipline during plenary and committee sessions.
“Honourable members, the standing orders require us to maintain order and decorum in the House and in committee, and to refrain from offensive, insulting, or unbecoming language,” he said.
He further cited Order 123, Rule 3, which cautions members against imputing improper motives or using language that is disrespectful or likely to offend.
The confrontation began when Mr. Afenyo-Markin described Justice Baffoe-Bonnie as a “disputed nominee.” Mr. Ayariga immediately challenged the remark, describing it as politically charged and inappropriate. In response, the Minority Leader accused the Majority of attempting to suppress legitimate parliamentary scrutiny.
Observers note that the tension was partly influenced by campaign rhetoric from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2024 elections, which suggested that Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo would be replaced—a prediction now realised under the Mahama administration.
Reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to institutional harmony, Speaker Bagbin cited Article 125(1) of the 1992 Constitution, highlighting the judiciary’s independence. He stressed that the executive, legislature, and judiciary must operate “with mutual respect and restraint.”
He also directed the Appointments Committee leadership to ensure that future vetting sessions uphold “the highest standards of civility, objectivity, and institutional respect.”
Concluding, Speaker Bagbin stated:
“On your behalf, I extend our deepest apologies and assurances of continued paramount respect for the judiciary and its esteemed members.”