Bagbin Rallies First-Time MPs, Unveils Blueprint for a People-Centred, Transparent Parliament

Bagbin Rallies First-Time MPs, Unveils Blueprint for a People-Centred, Transparent Parliament

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has engaged first-time Members of Parliament in an informal but strategic dialogue aimed at strengthening collaboration, deepening legislative competence, and advancing his vision for a more open and people-centred Parliament.

The engagement, the first in a series, will soon be extended to senior MPs, the media and the general public through televised interactions—an initiative the Speaker believes will enhance transparency and reconnect citizens to the work of the Legislature.

Addressing the MPs, Speaker Bagbin underscored the need to build a democratic culture rooted in integrity, civility, and active participation. He called for a structured mentorship system, noting that experienced legislators must guide new entrants to preserve institutional memory and strengthen parliamentary practice.

He highlighted Parliament’s evolution from a rigid, adversarial chamber to a more cooperative multiparty institution. While urging MPs to uphold their party values, he reminded them that national interest must remain paramount.

Bagbin cautioned that partisanship is not inherently harmful; rather, its misuse threatens democratic stability. “Ghana has consciously chosen a multiparty system, and differing viewpoints are essential to its strength,” he said. He encouraged MPs to distinguish clearly between their personal roles and the institution they serve, and advised them to specialise in key legislative areas, especially committee work.

Describing committee activities as the engine of Parliament, he stressed that diligent research, preparation and participation are essential for delivering meaningful representation both in committee rooms and on the floor of the House.

On constitutional issues, the Speaker clarified misconceptions about parliamentary privileges and immunities, emphasising that they are not personal benefits, but safeguards that protect the people’s voice from undue interference. He also expressed concern over long-neglected constitutional provisions affecting the welfare and functioning of local assembly members.

Bagbin pledged to help reactivate structures that enhance decentralisation, insisting that allocation of funds such as the District Assemblies Common Fund is constitutionally the mandate of Parliament not the Executive.

He reiterated his aspiration for Ghana’s Parliament to become a globally respected institution, befitting a nation uniquely positioned at the world’s geographic centre. He urged MPs to reject divisive narratives and instead embrace unity in diversity.

Responding to public commentary about his attire, the Speaker remarked that the parliamentary dress code reflects Ghana’s cultural identity and pride. He thanked the MPs for their dedication in recent sittings and assured them of continued support as they grow in leadership, ethics and legislative excellence.