Alban Bagbin unanimously elected as Speaker of 9th Parliament

Alban Sumana Bagbin has been unanimously elected by Members of Parliament (MPs) from both the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) as Speaker of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.

The Speaker was nominated by the Majority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, following the dissolution of the 8th Parliament at midnight on 7th January. This paved the way for the 9th Parliament, chaired by Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, to conduct a roll call for MPs. Addressing the House, Dr Forson highlighted Bagbin’s extensive experience in Parliament and governance in general.

The motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, but not without some drama.

Before seconding the motion, Afenyo-Markin attempted to make comments, but this was vehemently opposed by the MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. Ablakwa’s objection was swiftly rebutted by the MP for Damango, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, sparking loud cheers in the House.

In his remarks, Afenyo-Markin questioned a letter from the President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, directing the NDC’s parliamentary leadership to nominate Alban Bagbin as Speaker, accusing the party of “bad faith.”

Following the heated exchanges and strong warnings from the Clerk of Parliament against further objections, the Minority Leader proceeded to second the motion.

Subsequently, a written consent from the Speaker was read to the House and with no other nominations, Alban Bagbin was duly declared Speaker-elect of the 9th Parliament.

Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkonoo was then invited to the floor of the house to swear in Alban Bagbin as Speaker amid cheers from the MPs.

Alban Sumana Bagbin assumes the Speaker’s role with vast experience, having served as the Member of Parliament for Nadowli, Minority Leader, Majority Leader, and Speaker of the 8th Parliament.

Meanwhile, the Speaker has already expressed his commitment to the principles of “justice, fairness, and respect for the rule of law” to ensure that the 9th Parliament operates with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness.

Read Full Story