Alban Bagbin sworn in as Speaker of Ghana’s 9th Parliament

Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin has been sworn in as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana. The ceremony, held on January 7, 2025, followed his endorsement by President-elect John Dramani Mahama. Bagbin’s re-election solidifies his reputation as a key figure in Ghana’s parliamentary history, having served in the same role during the 8th Parliament.

Nomination and Confirmation

The nomination process began with Cassiel Ato Forson, the newly confirmed Majority Leader, moving the motion on the floor of Parliament. Forson confidently declared, “I move that Hon Alban Bagbin do take the chair of this House as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament.”

The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, albeit amid notable controversy. Afenyo-Markin expressed dissatisfaction with the nomination process, accusing the President-elect of inadequate consultation.

Clerk of Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror promptly addressed these concerns, dismissing Afenyo-Markin’s comments as irrelevant. Djietror asserted, “The remarks have no bearing on the formalities of seconding the motion.”

Subsequently, Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo administered the Oath of Office to Bagbin, officially confirming his position as Speaker.

Bagbin’s Call for Unity

In his acceptance speech, Bagbin emphasized the need for unity and impartiality in the House. He pledged to work collaboratively with all sides of the political divide to ensure effective governance. His leadership is set to guide a Parliament where the National Democratic Congress (NDC) holds a strong majority.

Profile of Alban Bagbin

Education and Early Career:

Bagbin attended Sombo R.C. Primary and Wa Secondary schools before completing his Advanced Level Certificate at Tamale Secondary School in 1977. He graduated from the University of Ghana School of Law in 1980 and was called to the Ghana Bar in 1982.

He furthered his education with a Certificate in Privatization from ESAMI in Tanzania and an Executive Master’s Degree in Governance and Leadership from GIMPA in 2008.

Professionally, Bagbin served as an Assistant Administrative Officer with the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) before pursuing legal practice. He later worked as Personnel Manager for the State Hotels Corporation and taught English in Libya. Upon returning to Ghana in 1986, he established a private law firm, Law Trust Company, as Managing Partner.

Parliamentary and Leadership Roles:

Bagbin entered Parliament in 1993 as the MP for Nadowli. Over his extensive legislative career, he chaired various committees, including the Public Accounts Committee and Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.

In 2000, Bagbin was appointed Minority Leader, a role in which he excelled. He later served as Majority Leader from 2009 and took on executive responsibilities as Minister for Water Resources, Works and Housing, and later as Minister for Health.

In January 2017, Bagbin was elected as 2nd Deputy Speaker under Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye during the 7th Parliament. In 2021, he became Speaker of the 8th Parliament, making history as the first Speaker not from the ruling party.

International Contributions:

Bagbin has represented Ghana on numerous international platforms, including the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Group (ACP) and the Global Organization for Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC). He is the immediate past President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and served as President of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments in Africa.

Legacy and Experience:

With over four decades of legal practice and an illustrious political career, Bagbin remains a towering figure in Ghana’s governance. His journey, from MP for Nadowli to Speaker of the 9th Parliament, underscores his dedication to public service and democracy.

Conclusion

As Speaker of the 9th Parliament, Bagbin faces the dual task of maintaining impartiality and steering a legislature dominated by his party, the NDC. His wealth of experience and call for unity signal a promising term for Ghana’s democratic process.

GOT A STORY?
Email Daily Mail GH: stories@dailymailgh.com or
Whatsapp: +233(0)509928122