MPs can only vacate seats upon changing political identity – Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has clarified its reasoning for supporting Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin's suit on parliamentary seat vacancies.

The Court ruled that an MP only vacates their seat if they change their political affiliation and remain in Parliament with the new party.

According to the ruling, Article 97(1)(g) and (h) of the Constitution apply solely to the current parliamentary term, not future ones.

This means an MP does not lose their seat if they switch parties between terms.

However, an Independent MP who joins a political party during their term must vacate their seat.

The ruling stressed that these provisions only apply to the current term, not future political ambitions or election plans.