The Court of Appeal in Koforidua has delivered a significant blow in the ongoing SALL (Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi) case, granting an interlocutory injunction that directly impacts John Peter Amewu, the former Member of Parliament for Hohoe, and the Speaker of Parliament. This legal action, initiated by Professor Margaret Kweku and others, aims to prevent Mr. Amewu from presenting himself as the former MP and to stop the Speaker from processing any entitlements on his behalf while the appeal is being heard. The injunction highlights the persistent legal disputes surrounding the SALL traditional areas and their representation in Parliament, adding another layer of complexity to the political landscape. The central question of fair representation remains at the heart of the SALL case, making it a pivotal moment for the constituents involved.

The SALL case stems from the exclusion of residents in the Santrokofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi traditional areas from participating in the 2020 parliamentary elections. This exclusion sparked considerable controversy and legal challenges, eventually leading to the current injunction. The Court of Appeal’s decision effectively restrains John Peter Amewu from acting as the Hohoe MP and prevents the Speaker of Parliament from processing his entitlements pending the outcome of the appeal. Professor Margaret Kweku, a leading voice from the SALL traditional areas, has been instrumental in bringing forth the injunction, advocating for the rights and representation of her community.

During the court proceedings, Mr. Tsatsu Tsikata, representing the petitioners, passionately argued for the injunction to prevent the Speaker from processing payments to Mr. Amewu. He emphasized the critical importance of upholding justice and urged the court to consider the potential ramifications for the constituents and the integrity of the electoral process. “In the interest of justice, the court must prevent any actions that could prejudice the outcome of the appeal,” Tsikata asserted, highlighting the need to safeguard the democratic principles at stake. In response, Mr. Amewu’s counsel contended that his client had acted appropriately, suggesting that the Electoral Commission should bear responsibility for any irregularities. Ultimately, the three-member panel, presided over by Justice Bright Mensah, deemed the application meritorious and granted the injunction.

The Ho High Court, under Justice Owoahene Acheampong, had initially dismissed the election petition against Mr. Amewu’s election on July 29, 2024, citing a lack of jurisdiction. This decision prompted an immediate response, with a Notice of Appeal filed on July 31, 2024, challenging the High Court’s ruling. Subsequently, the application for the interlocutory injunction was filed on December 23, 2024, marking a determined effort to address the grievances of the SALL case and ensure their concerns were heard.

The injunction has significant implications for the representation of the Hohoe constituency and the SALL traditional areas in Parliament. With the Speaker of Parliament now restrained from processing any entitlements for Mr. Amewu, his financial benefits as a former MP are directly affected. Furthermore, the case is now set to proceed to a full hearing and determination of the appeal, which will ultimately decide the legitimacy of Mr. Amewu’s election and the rightful representation of the affected constituents. The outcome of this legal battle will have far-reaching consequences, potentially reshaping the political landscape and setting a precedent for future election disputes in Ghana.

Looking ahead, the Court of Appeal is expected to schedule a hearing to thoroughly consider the substantive issues raised in the appeal. The court’s final decision will determine the validity of Mr. Amewu’s election and the representation of the Hohoe constituency. This case holds the potential to significantly impact the future of electoral processes and the representation of traditional areas across Ghana, making it a crucial moment for the country’s democratic framework.

The granting of the interlocutory injunction in the SALL case against John Peter Amewu and the Speaker of Parliament represents a pivotal moment in this ongoing legal saga. As the Court of Appeal prepares to hear the full appeal, the future of the Hohoe constituency’s representation remains uncertain. This decision underscores the fundamental importance of due process and the crucial role of the judiciary in safeguarding fair representation for all citizens. The SALL case is a significant legal battle with far-reaching consequences.