The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, has called on first-time Members of Parliament (MPs) to embrace a culture of transparency, accountability, and active participation as part of his vision to build a people-centred and globally admired legislature.
Speaking at an informal engagement session with new MPs, Mr. Bagbin emphasised the need for integrity and civility in parliamentary conduct.
He urged the newly elected legislators to seek mentorship from senior colleagues, highlighting the importance of institutional memory in sustaining a strong legislative framework.
“Ghana has consciously chosen a multiparty system, and differing viewpoints are essential to its strength,” Mr. Bagbin said, stressing that partisanship should serve democracy rather than undermine it.
He cautioned that while partisan politics is inevitable in a democratic system, it becomes detrimental when misused to create division or obstruct the legislative process.
Committees as the engine of Parliament
Central to Mr. Bagbin’s message was the pivotal role of committee work in the legislative process.
He urged MPs to specialise in particular areas of policy and prepare diligently for committee sessions, describing such work as the engine of Parliament that drives effective representation and lawmaking.
“Diligent research, preparation, and active participation in committees are crucial to delivering meaningful outcomes for constituents,” he said.
By encouraging MPs to focus on committees, Mr. Bagbin hopes to cultivate legislators who are not only vocal in debates but also deeply knowledgeable in specific policy areas.
Clarifying Parliamentary privileges
Mr. Bagbin also addressed misconceptions surrounding parliamentary privileges and immunities, emphasising that these are safeguards for the people’s voice, not personal perks.
He reminded MPs that these privileges exist to ensure legislators can perform their duties without undue influence or fear, and should be used responsibly in the public interest.
The Speaker further expressed concern about neglected constitutional provisions regarding local assembly members’ welfare, pledging to revitalise mechanisms that strengthen decentralisation.
He underscored Parliament’s role in determining allocations such as the District Assemblies Common Fund, a key instrument in empowering local governance structures.
Promoting a transparent, accountable legislature
In line with his vision for a people-centred Parliament, Mr. Bagbin outlined plans to make legislative activities more accessible to the public.
He proposed initiatives such as televised committee sessions involving senior MPs, media, and citizens, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability.
He also responded to criticisms regarding his attire, asserting that Ghana’s parliamentary dress reflects cultural pride and tradition, reinforcing the importance of national identity in public service.
Encouraging unity and ethical leadership
Throughout his engagement, Mr. Bagbin commended the contributions of the new MPs and assured them of continuous support in their journey to grow in leadership, ethics, and legislative excellence.
He stressed unity in diversity, urging MPs to reject divisive narratives and work collaboratively to advance the country’s legislative agenda.
The session concluded with a renewed commitment from the Speaker for Ghana’s Parliament to evolve into a transparent, accountable, and respected institution, both locally and on the global stage.
