Speaker Bagbin engages first-time MPs

The Speaker noted that Parliament has evolved over the years, transitioning from confrontational partisanship toward a more cooperative multiparty system. He stressed, however, that MPs must balance party loyalty with a commitment to the national interest.

Mr. Bagbin cautioned that partisanship, on its own, does not threaten democracy unless it is abused. Ghana’s choice of a multiparty system, he said, requires legislators to appreciate differing viewpoints and work within them. He urged MPs to specialise in specific legislative areas, especially committee work, which he described as the “engine” of Parliament. Effective representation, he added, demands diligent research, preparation, and active participation both at the committee and plenary levels.

Touching on constitutional matters, the Speaker clarified misconceptions about parliamentary privileges and immunities, noting that these protections are not personal entitlements but safeguards designed to protect the people’s voice. He also drew attention to neglected constitutional provisions on the welfare of assembly members, insisting that Parliament—not the Executive—holds the constitutional mandate to determine allocations such as the District Assemblies Common Fund.

Mr. Bagbin reiterated his aspiration for Ghana’s Parliament to become a globally respected institution, reflective of the country’s unique position at the geographic centre of the world. He encouraged MPs to embrace unity, reject divisive rhetoric, and uphold Ghana’s cultural identity, even in matters of parliamentary attire.