Accra, Ghana — In a firm statement amid recent legislative tensions, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin emphasized his commitment to bolstering the strength and autonomy of Ghana’s Parliament. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, November 6, Bagbin clarified that his primary goal as Speaker is to leave behind a resilient, empowered Parliament capable of serving future generations.
“I cherish the role Parliament plays in our democracy,” Bagbin affirmed, adding, “My mission is to leave Parliament a stronger institution than I met it.”
Bagbin addressed the recent controversy over the indefinite adjournment of Parliament’s plenary session, explaining that the decision was taken due to a lack of quorum following a walkout by members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He noted that the disruption was resolved through discussions with leadership outside Parliament and stressed that the adjournment was conducted lawfully.
“Parliament is alive and working,” Bagbin said. “It has not been dissolved, prohibited, suspended, or terminated. 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.”
Bagbin also reiterated the critical importance of parliamentary independence in Ghana’s democracy, particularly in light of recent events that have brought the boundaries between government branches into focus. He underscored that maintaining a clear separation of powers is essential to Parliament’s role as a check on the Executive and Judicial branches.
As tensions simmer, Bagbin’s commitment to reinforcing Parliament’s authority reflects his determination to preserve a balanced and democratic system for the next generation of Ghanaian leaders.
