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Alban Bagbin Sworn in as Speaker of Ghana’s 9th Parliament
Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin has officially been sworn in as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, cementing his role as a key figure in the nation’s legislative history.
The ceremony took place on January 7, 2025, following Bagbin’s endorsement by President-elect John Dramani Mahama, marking a continuation of his tenure after serving as Speaker of the 8th Parliament.
The proceedings began with Cassiel Ato Forson, the newly confirmed majority leader, moving the motion for Bagbin’s nomination. Forson stated:
“I move that Hon Alban Bagbin do take the chair of this House as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament.”
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The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, though not without drama. Afenyo-Markin raised concerns over the nomination process, accusing the president-elect of insufficient consultation regarding Bagbin’s endorsement.
Clerk of Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror quickly dismissed these objections, noting that the comments were irrelevant to the formalities of seconding the motion.
Following this, Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo administered the Oath of Office to Bagbin, officially confirming him as the Speaker of Parliament.
In his acceptance speech, Speaker Bagbin called for unity among Members of Parliament and pledged to remain impartial in his role to ensure the smooth functioning of the House. He acknowledged the trust placed in him by both sides of the political divide and emphasised the need for collaboration in addressing Ghana’s pressing challenges.
Bagbin, a veteran politician and legislator, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
His leadership in the 8th Parliament was marked by his ability to navigate a politically charged environment, with the legislature evenly split between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
His reelection as Speaker positions him as a central figure in shaping parliamentary debates and legislation under the new Mahama administration.
Profile of Alban Bagbin
- Early Life and Education:
- Bagbin hails from the Upper West Region of Ghana. He attended Sombo R.C. Primary School and Wa Secondary School before proceeding to Tamale Secondary School, where he obtained his Advanced Level Certificate in 1977.
- He earned a degree in law and English from the University of Ghana School of Law in 1980 and was called to the Bar in 1982. He later completed an executive master’s degree in governance and leadership at GIMPA in 2008.
- Professional Career:
- Bagbin worked with the Ghana Statistical Service and the State Hotels Corporation before venturing into private legal practice. He co-founded the Law Trust Company and served as its managing partner.
- Political Career:
- Elected as the MP for Nadowli in 1992, Bagbin has held various leadership roles in Parliament, including minority leader, majority leader, and 2nd deputy speaker.
- He served as Minister for Water Resources, Works, and Housing, and later as Minister for Health.
- Global Contributions:
- Bagbin has represented Ghana in numerous international organisations, including the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Group.
- He served as the president of the CPA and the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments in Africa.
- Recognition:
- A member of the Ghana Bar Association for over four decades, Bagbin is celebrated for his extensive contributions to Ghana’s legal and political landscape.
As the Speaker of the 9th Parliament, Bagbin will oversee a legislature dominated by the NDC, which holds a strong majority following its electoral victory in December 2024. His leadership is expected to play a crucial role in balancing parliamentary debates and fostering collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government.
The swearing-in of Alban Bagbin marks a historic moment in Ghana’s political journey, highlighting his enduring influence in shaping the country’s democratic processes.
