Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, has officially nominated Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament, a decision that underscores his confidence in Bagbin’s leadership abilities and experience. If approved, Bagbin will become the second individual in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to hold the position of Speaker in two different parliamentary terms. The first was Rt. Hon. Daniel Francis Annan, who served as Speaker during two consecutive terms under former President Jerry John Rawlings between 1993 and 2001.

The announcement, which was made on Sunday, January 5, 2025, through a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the spokesperson for Mahama’s transition team, highlighted that the President-elect made the decision after consulting with the National Executive and Parliamentary leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The NDC has long had a strong tradition of supporting Bagbin due to his vast parliamentary experience and leadership qualities, and Mahama’s nomination reflects that trust.

In his statement, Mahama emphasized that Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin’s decades of service to Parliament have distinguished him as a seasoned and capable leader. Bagbin’s career in Parliament spans several key roles, starting as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Nadowli, a position he has held for many years. Over time, Bagbin rose through the ranks, serving as both the Minority Leader and Majority Leader in the House. His leadership journey culminated in his election as Speaker of the 8th Parliament, where he was instrumental in guiding parliamentary proceedings through complex political landscapes.

Mahama further commended Bagbin’s wealth of experience, which he believes will be invaluable in ensuring the effective and efficient functioning of Parliament during a critical phase in Ghana’s democratic journey. The President-elect noted that Bagbin’s leadership style, rooted in his deep understanding of parliamentary procedures and his commitment to the principles of democracy, would enable him to navigate the challenges ahead. “Rt. Hon. Bagbin brings a wealth of experience to the position, which will prove vital in steering the affairs of Parliament at this pivotal period in Ghana’s democratic and legislative development,” the statement read.

Mahama expressed confidence that Bagbin would effectively utilize his vast experience and expertise to strengthen Parliament, ensuring that it meets its constitutional mandate and delivers on its oversight responsibilities. As Speaker, Bagbin will play a central role in maintaining order, facilitating debates, and ensuring that Parliament fulfills its duties as a key pillar of Ghana’s democracy.

With this nomination, Mahama has signaled his commitment to ensuring that the 9th Parliament operates smoothly, and that its leadership is well-equipped to handle the important tasks of advancing legislation and holding the executive branch to account. Bagbin’s nomination comes at a time when Ghana’s political landscape faces both challenges and opportunities, making his leadership even more crucial.