Alban Bagbin Sworn in as Speaker of Ghana’s 9th Parliament
Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin has officially assumed office as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament of Ghana’s Fourth Republic. The swearing-in ceremony, held on January 7, 2025, was a significant moment in Ghana’s parliamentary history, cementing Bagbin’s role as a towering figure in legislative governance.
President-elect John Dramani Mahama endorsed Bagbin for the Speaker position, following his successful tenure in the 8th Parliament. The endorsement and support from both sides of the House reflect Bagbin’s influence and stature in Ghanaian politics.
Key Moments from the Swearing-In Ceremony
The ceremony began with Cassiel Ato Forson, the newly appointed Majority Leader, presenting 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.”
The motion received a second from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, albeit not without some tension. Afenyo-Markin raised concerns over the nomination process, accusing the President-elect of insufficient consultation. However, these reservations were swiftly dismissed by the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, who emphasized procedural adherence over political grievances.
Chief Justice Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo administered the Oath of Office to Bagbin, officially marking the start of his new term as Speaker. In his acceptance speech, Bagbin called for unity across party lines and pledged impartial leadership to ensure effective governance.
Alban Bagbin’s Remarkable Career: A Profile
Early Education and Legal Training
- Primary & Secondary Education: Attended Sombo R.C. Primary and Wa Secondary Schools in Ghana’s Upper West Region before proceeding to Tamale Secondary School in the Northern Region.
- Higher Education: Bagbin 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 after completing studies at the Ghana Law School.
- Additional Qualifications: He holds a Certificate in Privatization of Public Utilities from ESAMI in Tanzania and an Executive Master’s in Governance and Leadership from GIMPA (2008).
Professional Journey
- Early Career: Served as Assistant Administrative Officer at the Ghana Statistical Service and as Personnel Manager at the State Hotels Corporation. He also taught English in Libya before returning to Ghana to establish the Law Trust Company, a private law firm.
- Parliamentary Service: Bagbin was first elected MP for Nadowli in 1992 and served continuously until 2021. Over the years, he chaired key parliamentary committees, including Public Accounts and Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs.
- Leadership Roles: He served as Minority Leader (2000), Majority Leader (2009), and later as Minister for Water Resources, Works, and Housing, as well as Health.
Speaker of Parliament
Bagbin first assumed the role of Speaker in January 2021, leading the 8th Parliament. He has been pivotal in fostering parliamentary diplomacy, serving on international boards like the Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Group (ACP) and the European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly (EUJPA). His tenure as President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Conference of African Speakers highlights his extensive global influence.
Legacy and Current Role
Bagbin is celebrated for his impartiality, legal expertise, and dedication to public service. As Speaker of the 9th Parliament, he must steer a legislature dominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) while fostering bipartisan collaboration.
Conclusion
The swearing-in of Alban Bagbin as Speaker signals a new chapter for Ghana’s parliamentary leadership. With over four decades of legal and political experience, he is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring the legislature remains a strong pillar of Ghanaian democracy.