Member of Parliament for Ningo/Prampram, George Samuel Nartey (Sam George), has announced his intention to summon a Supreme Court judge before Parliament’s Privileges Committee over alleged false claims made against him. The MP said the judge, speaking at a press conference organized by the Association of Judges and Magistrates, made serious and unfounded allegations that impugned the integrity of Parliament and the government.
Sam George stressed that these allegations were not only damaging but also cast a slur on the collective image of the Parliament of Ghana. He emphasized that Parliament’s dignity must be upheld, especially by those in positions of authority, adding that those who misuse their privileged positions must be held accountable.
“The image of Parliament must be respected by all persons, and those in privileged positions who ought to know better must be held to higher standards of accountability,” Sam George said during a press conference with the Parliamentary Press Corps on Friday, October 18, 2024, at Parliament House.
Referring to the press conference held by the Association of Judges and Magistrates, the MP noted, “Serious allegations were made, which not only affect the integrity of the Legislature but also cast a slur on the collective image of Parliament.”
According to Sam George, the controversy stems from a peaceful march held on October 8, 2024, which he led alongside a coalition of clergy, traditional authorities, and civil society organizations. The march, dubbed the “Family Values March,” aimed to demand the Chief Justice fulfill her promise of an early trial, which she had made on July 7, 2024.
“The march was extremely peaceful, and we adhered to all previously agreed arrangements with the Ghana Police Service,” he stated. He explained that the march, which concluded in front of the Supreme Court, had been peaceful, and the delegation was received by a judicial team, including a magistrate, the Registrar of the Supreme Court, and a security officer.
False Allegations Emerge
Sam George expressed disbelief over the false allegations that later surfaced during the press conference held by the Association of Judges and Magistrates. He accused the judge of spreading unfounded claims that the marchers intended to disrupt the peace at the Supreme Court.
“These allegations of attempting to wreak havoc on the Supreme Court are very serious and must be investigated. At the press conference, several untruths were peddled against the Family Values March, and it is imperative that the facts be established for the benefit of the public,” Sam George said.
He announced his decision to invoke the jurisdiction of Parliament’s Privileges Committee to summon the judge who made these claims, insisting that the judge substantiate the allegations. Sam George reiterated that the image of Parliament must be protected, and those in positions of influence should be held accountable for falsehoods.
To support his defense, Sam George presented video footage of the Family Values March to demonstrate the peaceful nature of the event and refute the accusations made against him and his coalition.
By S. O. Ankamah