The Speaker of Parliament has faced criticism for failing to file a statement of case in a high-profile legal dispute over the eligibility of certain Members of Parliament (MPs) to retain their seats.

The case centres on whether MPs who declare their intention to run as independents can maintain their parliamentary positions.

In a court hearing on Monday, November 11, the Speaker’s legal team was notably absent, despite a previous court directive. The court had ordered that the Speaker file the necessary documents by Wednesday, November 6, following a request from his lawyer, Thaddeus Sory, for additional time to consult with the Speaker and prepare a comprehensive submission. However, the deadline passed without any statement being filed.

Meanwhile, Attorney-General Godfred Dame argued that the Speaker’s direct involvement was not essential. He stated that the Attorney-General’s office was authorised to handle constitutional matters on behalf of public officers and urged the Supreme Court to proceed with the case without further delay. He cautioned that continued postponements could prolong the uncertainty and impede the legal process.

The case seeks to clarify the constitutional standing of MPs who switch allegiance or declare themselves independent before an election, raising crucial questions about parliamentary seat retention.

Source:TheDotNews