Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has underscored his commitment to reinforcing the authority and integrity of Ghana’s Parliament amid recent tensions over the declaration of four parliamentary seats as vacant.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Mr. Bagbin stated that his primary focus as Speaker is to leave behind a more resilient and effective legislative body.
“I cherish the role parliament plays in our democracy and my mission is to leave parliament a stronger institution than I met it.”
Mr. Bagbin also addressed the importance of preserving parliamentary autonomy, noting that recent events have highlighted the need for clear boundaries between the legislative and other branches of government.
He stressed that the effectiveness and independence of Parliament are essential to Ghana’s democratic governance, and he reaffirmed his dedication to safeguarding these principles throughout his tenure.
He added “Parliament is alive and working. It has not been dissolved, prohibited, suspended or terminated. The plenary meeting of parliament was adjourned indefinitely due to the lack of quorum to make decisions created by a walkout staged by the NPP members, who were available as a result of a disagreement.”
“The cause of the disagreement which led to a disorder had to be resolved with time and the engagement of many more leaders than those in parliament.
“The adjournment was done by the lawful authority, the speaker of parliament. Let us stop pressing the panic buttons and fearmongering and allow the system to work.”
