The Eighth Parliament’s Legacy: A Retrospective by Speaker Bagbin
Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, in his farewell address to the Eighth Parliament of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, reflected on the significant achievements and challenges of the House during its four-year tenure. This unique Parliament, marked by an equal representation between the two major political parties, served as a testing ground for bipartisan collaboration and consensus-building in Ghana’s evolving democracy. The Speaker highlighted the legislative productivity of the House, noting the passage of 60 bills out of 100 presented, with five being landmark primary bills. He also acknowledged the ongoing work on several other bills, emphasizing the commitment of the House to address critical national issues.
The Speaker lauded the Eighth Parliament for its strides in enhancing openness, accountability, transparency, and inclusivity within the parliamentary processes. These advancements represent a significant step towards fostering greater public trust and engagement in the democratic process. He credited the collaborative spirit of the members, despite political differences, for the Parliament’s success in navigating uncharted territory. This spirit of collaboration allowed the House to address critical national issues and enact legislation that positively impacted the lives of Ghanaians.
However, the journey of the Eighth Parliament wasn’t without its somber moments. The Speaker acknowledged the loss of two esteemed members, Mr. Philip Atta Basoah and Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, whose contributions to the House and the nation were deeply valued. Their passing served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the contributions of those who dedicate themselves to public service. The Speaker expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased members and acknowledged their contributions to the work of the Parliament.
Speaker Bagbin emphasized the significance of the 2020 election results in shaping the mandate of the Eighth Parliament. The electorate’s call for unity and cooperation resonated deeply within the House, urging members to prioritize the collective good over partisan interests. The Speaker reiterated his earlier advice to members, particularly the 114 first-time MPs, to lead with humility, respect, and diligence, recognizing that their ultimate responsibility lies in serving the people. The Speaker highlighted his message of service to the people as paramount for the members.
As the Eighth Parliament prepared to dissolve, Speaker Bagbin extended his congratulations to the returning members of the Ninth Parliament and offered words of wisdom to the incoming first-time MPs. He urged them to embrace the principles of service, accountability, and collaboration, reminding them that the day of reckoning with the electorate arrives quickly. The Speaker highlighted the cyclical nature of democratic processes, urging members, particularly first-timers, to stay connected with the people they serve since they will ultimately provide an account of their stewardship.
Looking ahead, Speaker Bagbin expressed hope that the Ninth Parliament would build upon the foundation laid by its predecessor and continue to strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions. He challenged the incoming members to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity and to work diligently in the service of the nation. The Speaker also highlighted the significance of the next election cycle, reminding members of their ongoing responsibility to the electorate and the importance of maintaining public trust. He stressed the continuous evolution of Ghana’s democratic process and the role of each successive Parliament in furthering that development.
