Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has rejected claims that his period as Minority Leader was characterised by disorder, insisting that his leadership was marked by discipline, strategy, and unity within the caucus.
Speaking at the launch of a scholarship scheme for Members of Parliament on Monday, November 17, 2025, Bagbin clarified that although the Minority faced intense national issues during his tenure, the group remained focused and coordinated in its approach to parliamentary business.
According to him, the misconception that his leadership era was chaotic stems from the highly charged political atmosphere of the time, rather than any internal dysfunction within the Minority.
He said claims by the Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markin, that he drew inspiration from Bagbin’s tenure as Minority Leader are inaccurate.
He explained that the caucus often operated under pressure due to major legislative debates, national economic concerns, and heightened public expectations.
“What the Minority Leader is doing now is not what I did. He has expressed to you people that he took inspiration from my report. Please go and read my report. I never, on the floor, raised my voice. I never, on the floor, tried to show a certain power, no,” Bagbin said.
Bagbin emphasised that under his watch, the Minority Caucus adopted clear strategies, maintained communication channels, and worked collectively to hold the government accountable.
He added that disagreements within parliamentary groups are normal and should not be mistaken for disorder.
“I study the political environment, test the pulse of the people, and then you play along with that. I didn’t do what you are doing,” he added.
He also highlighted the strong collaboration that existed between him and the leadership team at the time, noting that their ability to manage divergent views was a key factor in stabilising the caucus.
Bagbin, who later became Speaker of Parliament, said his experience as Minority Leader shaped his understanding of parliamentary democracy and strengthened his ability to guide the House effectively.
He urged the public to appreciate the complexities of parliamentary leadership, stressing that robust debate and internal discussions are signs of a healthy democratic process, not chaos.
