The 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana has been officially inaugurated, ushering in a new legislative session. This historic event took place in the early hours of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra, following the dissolution of the 8th Parliament at midnight. The inauguration marked the beginning of a new political chapter shaped by the results of the 2024 general elections.
Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the re-elected Speaker of Parliament, was sworn in by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Bagbin, who previously served as the Speaker of the 8th Parliament, was re-nominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and received overwhelming support from Members of Parliament. His re-election signifies a key moment in Ghana’s democratic journey, ensuring continuity and experienced leadership in the House.
Following his swearing-in, Speaker Bagbin presided over the oath-taking ceremony for 275 Members of Parliament-elect, with the exception of the representative from the Ablekuma North constituency. The ceremony was a symbolic moment for the nation, representing the dawn of a new legislative era. Family members, friends, and dignitaries gathered at Parliament House to witness this significant occasion, reflecting the importance of Ghana’s parliamentary traditions.
The NDC emerged as the majority party in the 2024 parliamentary elections, securing 183 seats out of 276. This victory allowed the party to retain its leadership team for the new session. The NDC’s leadership comprises Cassiel Ato Forson as Majority Leader, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as Deputy Majority Leader, Governs Kwame Agbodza as Majority Chief Whip, and Ahmed Ibrahim as Deputy Majority Chief Whip. Their collective experience and leadership are expected to shape the legislative agenda in the 9th Parliament, aligning with the NDC’s vision for national development.
While the inauguration was marked by optimism, the event was overshadowed by legal challenges concerning the Akwatia parliamentary seat. The Koforidua High Court issued an injunction preventing Ernest Kumi, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate for Akwatia, from holding himself out as the Member of Parliament-elect. The court also barred the Clerk of Parliament from swearing him in, creating a legal hurdle that underscored the complexities of Ghana’s electoral process.
The injunction was granted on January 2, 2025, following a petition filed by the NDC’s candidate, Henry Boakye Yiadom, against the Electoral Commission, Ernest Kumi, and the Clerk of Parliament. Yiadom cited irregularities in the December 7, 2024, elections, prompting the court to halt Kumi’s participation in the swearing-in ceremony. This legal development highlighted the ongoing tensions between the two major political parties and the challenges in resolving electoral disputes.
Gary Nimako Marfo, legal counsel for the NPP, argued that the injunction was improperly filed, contending that election results can only be contested within 21 days after gazettement. Despite these objections, the court upheld the injunction, leaving Kumi unable to participate in the swearing-in and the subsequent election of the Speaker.
In the aftermath of the ruling, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin expressed that Ernest Kumi was prepared to proceed with the swearing-in process and face any legal consequences. However, Clerk of Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror emphasized that adhering to the court’s order was paramount, stating that allowing Kumi to take the oath would constitute a violation of the injunction.
The legal challenge surrounding the Akwatia seat added a layer of complexity to the inauguration of the 9th Parliament, serving as a reminder of the need for robust mechanisms to address electoral disputes. As the new Parliament begins its work, resolving such issues will be critical to maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions.
The inauguration of the 9th Parliament also sets the stage for significant legislative activity. With the NDC’s majority in the House, the party is poised to drive its legislative agenda and address pressing national issues. Speaker Bagbin’s leadership, combined with the contributions of Deputy Speakers Bernard Ahiafor and Andrew Amoako Asiamah, is expected to foster collaboration and ensure effective governance.
This new legislative session represents an opportunity for Ghana’s Parliament to build on its achievements and address the challenges facing the nation. The peaceful transition of leadership, despite the legal disputes, reflects the resilience of Ghana’s democratic institutions and the commitment of its leaders to uphold the rule of law.
As the 9th Parliament embarks on its journey, the focus will be on advancing policies that promote development, social justice, and economic stability. The leadership of the House will play a pivotal role in shaping the legislative priorities and ensuring that the voices of all Ghanaians are represented.
The legal proceedings surrounding the Akwatia seat will continue to unfold, serving as a critical test of Ghana’s judiciary and its ability to resolve electoral disputes fairly and transparently. Meanwhile, the 9th Parliament is tasked with the responsibility of navigating these challenges while fulfilling its mandate to serve the Ghanaian people.
The inauguration of the 9th Parliament and the election of its leadership mark a new chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey. It is a moment of reflection and renewal, offering an opportunity for the nation to strengthen its democratic institutions and chart a course toward progress and prosperity. The collective efforts of all Members of Parliament will be essential in achieving these goals and upholding the values that define Ghana’s democracy.
