In a firm but reflective address to Members of Parliament, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin has issued a clarion call for a renewed focus on public service, urging lawmakers to abandon political theatrics and conduct themselves with the dignity expected of Ghana’s highest legislative body.
Delivering the official statement at the commencement of the Second Meeting of the First Session of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Speaker Bagbin emphasized that Parliament must be a beacon of democratic excellence, not a battleground for partisan spectacle.
“This chamber must be a model of public service, not a theatre for showmanship,” Bagbin declared. “Debates must be firm but civil. Differences must be handled with principle and reason—not violence and emotion. The people expect intelligence, not insults. They expect substance, not spectacle.”
A Reflection on Decline in Standards
Referencing troubling episodes from the previous session, Speaker Bagbin expressed deep concern over incidents of disorder and misconduct that had cast a shadow over Parliament’s reputation.
“I am referring to those moments of great disorder, disgrace, and dishonour that brought the name of this House into disrepute,” he lamented. “Such incidents discredited members in the eyes of right-thinking Ghanaians who look up to Parliament for exemplary leadership.”
Bagbin described such conduct as “unbecoming” of elected representatives, warning that it erodes public trust and tarnishes the image of democracy in action.
Upholding the Integrity of the House
The Speaker reiterated that Parliament is governed by a framework of ethics, values, and rules designed not to hinder debate but to ensure fairness, order, and inclusivity. These laws, he said, are not symbolic—they are essential.
“The rules are not ornamental or discretionary,” he stressed. “They exist to safeguard order, enable free speech within the bounds of decency, and ensure that all members are treated equitably.”
In a stern tone, Bagbin warned that breaches of parliamentary conduct will no longer be tolerated.
“The honeymoon with the rules is over. The Deputy Speakers and I will be stricter in the enforcement of the standing orders. We will not allow disorder, absenteeism, or procedural shortcuts to become the norm.”
Restoring Credibility Through Discipline
Calling for a cultural reset within the House, Bagbin urged MPs to reflect on the kind of legacy they wish to leave behind. He noted that restoring Parliament’s standing in the eyes of the public would require more than good intentions.
“There is still time for this Parliament to raise its standing and strengthen its legacy,” he said. “But it will not happen by mere whimsical wish. It will require discipline, presence, preparation, and respect for procedure. These are the pillars of an effective legislature.”
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