The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has advised first-time Members of Parliament (MPs) to support the vision of a people-centred Parliament.
He made the call during an informal engagement with newly elected MPs, an initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration and open dialogue between his office and the Legislature’s newest representatives.
Speaker Bagbin said the engagement would soon be extended to senior MPs, the media and the general public through televised sessions, as part of broader efforts to promote transparency, openness and citizen-focused lawmaking.
Addressing the gathering, he urged, “Commit yourselves to building a people-centred Parliament.”
Speaker Bagbin stressed the need to nurture a democratic culture anchored in integrity, civility and meaningful participation. He proposed the creation of a mentorship system to allow experienced legislators to guide new MPs and safeguard institutional memory.
He noted that Parliament has evolved over the years from rigid, confrontational politics to a more cooperative multiparty system, a shift he said requires MPs to place national interest above partisan considerations while remaining true to their political beliefs.
The Speaker cautioned that partisanship, in itself, is not a danger to democracy, but becomes harmful only when abused. “Ghana has consciously chosen a multiparty system, and differing viewpoints are essential to its strength,” he said.
Speaker Bagbin reminded members of the distinction between Parliament as an institution and the role of the individual MP, urging them to develop expertise in specific legislative areas, particularly through committee work. He described committees as the engine of Parliament, stressing that thorough research, preparation and active participation are essential for impactful lawmaking.
On constitutional matters, he clarified misconceptions about parliamentary privileges and immunities, explaining that they are safeguards to protect the voice of the people rather than personal benefits for MPs.
He also raised concerns about long-neglected constitutional provisions relating to the welfare of local assembly members and pledged to strengthen decentralisation structures. He insisted that Parliament, not the Executive, must determine allocations such as the District Assemblies Common Fund, in line with the Constitution.
Speaker Bagbin expressed his aspiration for Ghana’s Parliament to become a globally respected institution and urged MPs to embrace unity in diversity while rejecting divisive narratives.
He also addressed public commentary on his attire, noting that parliamentary dress in Ghana reflects cultural identity and tradition.
The Speaker commended Members of Parliament for their contributions in recent sittings and assured them of his continued support as they grow in leadership, ethics and legislative excellence.
Source: citinewsroom.com