Prof. Mike Oquaye Warns Against Executive Intimidation of Opposition Lawmakers

Former Speaker of Parliament, Professor Aaron Mike Oquaye, has issued a stern warning against the misuse of state power to intimidate opposition lawmakers, arguing that such actions fundamentally undermine the constitutional principle of the separation of powers. Speaking on his tenure as Speaker, Prof. Oquaye revealed how he personally intervened to prevent the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) from arresting Mahama Ayariga, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central. He emphasized that the defense of parliamentary independence is crucial for a healthy democracy, asserting that constitutional rights must be protected regardless of an individual's political affiliation.

Recounting the specific incident, Prof. Oquaye detailed how he took proactive steps to protect Ayariga’s constitutional rights and parliamentary privileges during his term. Rather than allowing the arrest to proceed unchallenged, the former Speaker convened a high-level meeting with the Special Prosecutor to clarify the legal and constitutional protections afforded to MPs. He further solidified his position in a formal letter, documenting that his intervention was rooted in institutional preservation rather than partisan interests. According to Oquaye, ensuring that lawmakers are not subjected to executive harassment is vital for them to perform their duties without fear of retribution.

The former Speaker underscored that parliamentary privilege must be respected to maintain a meaningful balance between the various arms of government. He cautioned that when the Executive uses state machinery to target opposition figures, it erodes the foundation of the legislature’s oversight role. Prof. Oquaye advocated for a political culture where constitutional principles take precedence over party loyalty, noting that the protection of an opposition MP’s rights is a protection for the entire institution of Parliament and the democratic process at large.

His remarks serve as a significant reminder of the delicate relationship between the legislature and the executive in Ghana’s Fourth Republic. By highlighting his past actions to safeguard a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof. Oquaye called for a renewed commitment to the rule of law. He urged current and future leaders to uphold the dignity of Parliament, stressing that the respectful treatment of all members—irrespective of party lines—is essential for sustaining the country’s democratic gains and ensuring that the separation of powers remains a functional reality rather than a mere formality.