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The 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra. This historic occasion followed the dissolution of the 8th Parliament at midnight, ushering in a new legislative session.
Alban Bagbin Re-Elected as Speaker
Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, who previously served as Speaker of the 8th Parliament, was sworn in by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Bagbin was re-nominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and received overwhelming support from Members of Parliament (MPs).
His re-election was a significant moment for Ghana’s democracy, given his vast experience and proven leadership. Upon assuming office, Bagbin presided over the oath-taking ceremony for 275 Members of Parliament-elect, with the exception of the representative from Ablekuma North constituency.
Swearing-In Ceremony Marks New Legislative Era
The inauguration was attended by family members, friends, and dignitaries, symbolizing the beginning of a new political landscape shaped by the results of the 2024 general elections. With the NDC securing a majority in Parliament—winning 183 out of 276 seats—the party retained its leadership structure for the 9th Parliament.
The NDC’s leadership team for the new session includes:
Majority Leader: Cassiel Ato Forson (MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam)
Deputy Majority Leader: Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP for Ellembelle)
Majority Chief Whip: Governs Kwame Agbodza (MP for Adaklu)
Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Ahmed Ibrahim (MP for Banda)
Legal Dispute Overshadows Proceedings
Despite the smooth swearing-in process, a legal challenge involving the Akwatia parliamentary seat cast a shadow over the event. The Koforidua High Court upheld an injunction barring Ernest Kumi, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate for Akwatia, from holding himself out as the Member of Parliament-elect. The court also restrained the Clerk of Parliament from swearing him in.
This injunction resulted from a petition filed by Henry Boakye Yiadom, the NDC candidate for Akwatia, against the Electoral Commission, Ernest Kumi, and the Clerk of Parliament. Yiadom alleged irregularities in the December 7, 2024, elections. On January 2, 2025, the court granted the injunction, halting Kumi’s swearing-in.
Minority Pushes Back
NPP counsel, Gary Nimako Marfo, argued that the injunction was improperly filed and urged the court to dismiss the petition. He contended that election results can only be contested within 21 days after gazetting. However, the court maintained the injunction, leaving the matter unresolved.
Reacting to the situation, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin revealed that Ernest Kumi was prepared to take part in the swearing-in and Speaker election, even if it risked legal consequences. However, Clerk Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror stood firm, stating, “Allowing Kumi to participate would be a direct violation of the court order.”
Looking Ahead
As the 9th Parliament begins its work, the legal dispute over Akwatia serves as a reminder of the challenges that sometimes accompany Ghana’s democratic process. Meanwhile, the NDC’s parliamentary majority positions it to steer the legislative agenda in the coming years.
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