“I am grateful for this great honour” – Alban Bagbin retained as Speaker
Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has been re-elected as Speaker of Ghana’s 9th Parliament under the Fourth Republic.
This unanimous decision by legislators during the January 7, 2025, inauguration demonstrates their confidence in his leadership and extensive experience.
Mr Bagbin is widely recognised for his impartiality and dedication to parliamentary excellence.
In his acceptance letter, he expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in him and reaffirmed his commitment to fostering bipartisan collaboration and ensuring fairness in parliamentary proceedings.
Majority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson nominated Mr. Bagbin for the position, citing his distinguished career and transformative contributions to parliamentary governance.
Mr. Bagbin’s nomination, submitted with his written consent and supported by a member’s motion, was in accordance with Parliamentary Standing Orders 72 and 84.
Dr. Forson highlighted Bagbin’s expertise as a lawyer, politician, and statesman, emphasising his pivotal role in reshaping parliamentary operations.
His nomination was seconded by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who praised Mr Bagbin’s leadership credentials and unwavering commitment to fairness and national development.
Following a brief discussion, Clerk to Parliament Ebenezer Djietro declared Mr Bagbin as Speaker after noting the absence of other nominations.
Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo later administered the oath of office, solidifying his position.
Mr Bagbin’s re-election adds another milestone to his illustrious career.
A stalwart in Ghanaian politics, his journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Law and English from the University of Ghana in 1980 and subsequent legal practice after being called to the bar in 1982.
He furthered his education with postgraduate studies at the Southern African Management Institute and an Executive Master’s in Governance and Leadership from GIMPA.
During his 28 years as a Member of Parliament for Nadowli Kaleo, Bagbin held several key roles, including Minority Leader, Majority Leader, and Minister of Water Resources and Health.
His parliamentary legacy includes leading reforms on gender and social inclusion and representing Ghana on international platforms such as the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly and the Global Organisation for Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC).
Bagbin’s contributions to Ghana’s democracy earned him an honorary Doctor of Law from the University of Professional Studies, Accra, in 2017.
Married with two children, his re-election reflects his enduring impact on Ghana’s legislative and democratic processes, with high expectations for continued excellence in parliamentary leadership.