Mahama Ayariga, a lawyer and politician, has criticized the Supreme Court for its rapid response to a petition from Effutu MP Afenyo-Markin, concerning matters outside its jurisdiction, while ignoring appeals to address the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.
In an interview with Alfred Ocansey on the Key Points on October 19, Ayariga expressed disappointment over the court’s decision, calling it “absurd.”
He stated, “It is shocking that Afenyo-Markin was able to prompt the Supreme Court to act so quickly, especially when numerous chief Imams, pastors, and religious leaders have been pleading with the court to address the LGBTQ issue, but their requests have been ignored.
This raises questions about the judicial system as we approach the December 7 elections.”
Ayariga questioned how the Supreme Court could position itself as a political entity overseeing political actions within the legislature, referring to the court’s ruling which indicated that the Minority MPs were planning to reconstitute a committee. “Is that the court’s concern?” he asked.
Addressing the court’s statement about the MPs not being heard, Ayariga inquired, “Heard by whom? The MPs are members of Parliament and are required to participate in debates on the matter.”
He also hinted that the upcoming parliamentary session on Tuesday (October 22) is likely to be significant.
In February, Parliament unanimously passed a bill aimed at intensifying restrictions on LGBTQ rights in Ghana.
However, President Nana Akufo-Addo has delayed signing it, citing ongoing challenges at the Supreme Court.
