Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin has officially been sworn in as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana. The swearing-in ceremony, held on January 7, 2025, was a significant event, cementing Bagbin’s role as one of Ghana’s most prominent parliamentary figures.
His re-election follows his endorsement for the Speaker position by President-elect John Dramani Mahama, underscoring his influence and experience in Ghana’s legislative affairs. Bagbin previously served as Speaker during the 8th Parliament, and his re-election marks a continuation of his leadership at a critical time in Ghana’s political journey.
The ceremony began with a motion for Bagbin’s nomination moved by the newly confirmed Majority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. “I move that Hon. Alban Bagbin do take the chair of this House as the Speaker of the 9th Parliament,” Dr. Forson declared on the parliamentary floor, setting the tone for the proceedings. The motion was seconded by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, albeit amidst some drama. Afenyo-Markin raised concerns about the nomination process, citing what he described as insufficient consultation by the President-elect regarding Bagbin’s endorsement. However, these objections were swiftly dismissed by the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, who deemed the concerns irrelevant to the formalities of seconding the motion.
Following these exchanges, the Chief Justice, Gertrude Esaaba Torkornoo, administered the Oath of Office to Bagbin. This formal act officially confirmed him as Speaker, signaling the beginning of his tenure in the 9th Parliament. In his acceptance speech, Bagbin emphasized unity and pledged impartiality in ensuring the smooth functioning of the legislative body. His call for cooperation and harmony was a reflection of his commitment to fostering collaboration across the political divide, a hallmark of his previous tenure as Speaker.
Bagbin’s re-election is a historic moment in Ghana’s parliamentary journey. As a legislature now dominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), with a strong majority, the 9th Parliament is poised to navigate complex national issues under Bagbin’s guidance. His leadership style, marked by fairness and inclusivity, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the parliamentary agenda and maintaining balance in legislative debates.
Alban Bagbin’s journey to becoming one of Ghana’s most respected statesmen is a testament to his dedication and expertise. He began his educational journey at Sombo R.C. Primary School and Wa Secondary School in the Upper West Region, later proceeding to Tamale Secondary School in the Northern Region, where he obtained his Advanced Level Certificate in 1977. He furthered his education at the University of Ghana School of Law, graduating in 1980 with a degree in Law and English, before enrolling at the Ghana Law School, where he was called to the Bar in 1982.
Bagbin’s academic pursuits did not end there. He holds a Certificate in Privatization in Public Utilities and Infrastructure from the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute in Tanzania and an Executive Master’s Degree in Governance and Leadership from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, obtained in 2008. These qualifications laid the foundation for a distinguished career in law, governance, and public service.
Bagbin’s professional career began with roles at the Ghana Statistical Service and the State Hotels Corporation, where he served in administrative and personnel management capacities. He later ventured into private legal practice, co-founding the Law Trust Company, where he was the Managing Partner. His legal expertise and leadership skills gained him recognition, leading to his election as a Member of Parliament in 1992, representing the people of Nadowli.
In Parliament, Bagbin chaired various committees, including the Public Accounts Committee, the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, and the House Committee. His leadership abilities saw him rise to become the Minority Leader in December 2000, and later, the Majority Leader in January 2009, where he distinguished himself in both roles. Beyond parliamentary leadership, Bagbin served in the Executive as Minister for Water Resources, Works, and Housing, as well as Minister for Health, further showcasing his versatility and commitment to public service.
Bagbin’s influence extended beyond Ghana’s borders. He has represented the country on international platforms, serving on bodies such as the African-Caribbean-Pacific Group, the European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly, and the Global Organization for Parliamentarians Against Corruption. He has also been a member of the Ghana Bar Association since 1982, marking over four decades of distinguished service in the legal profession.
Bagbin’s tenure as Speaker began in 2021 when he was elected to lead the 8th Parliament. During this time, he gained a reputation for impartiality and a deep understanding of parliamentary procedures. His leadership earned him the presidency of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Parliaments in Africa, further solidifying his stature as a statesman of international repute.
As the Speaker of the 9th Parliament, Bagbin is expected to build on his legacy of promoting good governance and ensuring robust legislative oversight. His extensive experience in law, governance, and public administration positions him as a unifying figure capable of navigating the complexities of a diverse political landscape. His leadership will be critical in addressing national challenges and fostering cooperation among lawmakers.
Bagbin’s re-election as Speaker is a reflection of his enduring influence and the trust placed in him by the NDC and the broader legislative community. His journey from a humble beginning in the Upper West Region to becoming a central figure in Ghana’s parliamentary history is an inspiration to many. With the 9th Parliament now inaugurated, all eyes will be on Bagbin as he steers the affairs of the House, ensuring that it remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy.
