The National Democratic Congress (NDC), Ghana’s largest opposition party, has issued a statement commending the Speaker of Parliament, the Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, for his exceptional leadership during parliamentary proceedings.
The NDC praised Speaker Bagbin’s handling of Parliament’s affairs, which they described as exemplary and reflective of his commitment to maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s legislative processes. The statement, signed by its General Secretary, Fifi Kwetey, emphasized that Speaker Bagbin’s leadership has not only enhanced the functioning of Parliament but also upheld the principles of transparency and fairness.
“The Rt. Hon. Speaker Alban Bagbin’s handling of the business of Parliament… Was a masterclass. The mature leadership he displayed during parliamentary proceedings was exceptional.”
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, NDC’s General Secretary
The NDC further lauded Bagbin for conducting parliamentary affairs in a manner that prioritizes the well-being of the people of Ghana above partisan interests.
The NDC’s glowing remarks about Speaker Bagbin come at a time when the party asserts itself as the new majority in Ghana’s Parliament.
This assertion stems from ongoing political dynamics, following a closely contested 2020 general election, which led to a hung Parliament with an equal split between the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition NDC.
In their statement, the NDC underscored Speaker Bagbin’s role in protecting the independence of Parliament from external pressures.
“We applaud him for working in the interest of Parliament and the people of Ghana and enhancing the integrity of Parliament with his leadership,” Hon. Fifi Kwetey noted.
The opposition party expressed confidence that under Speaker Bagbin’s stewardship, the House would continue to uphold the Constitution and ensure that the voices of Ghanaians are heard, unimpeded by partisan interests.
The NDC believes Bagbin’s impartiality and sense of justice have contributed significantly to maintaining the credibility of parliamentary processes in the country, reinforcing the Speaker’s pivotal role as a neutral arbiter in parliamentary affairs.
“We also commend the NDC Majority Caucus for showing unwavering resoluteness,” Hon. Fifi Kwetey added. The party praised its members in Parliament for their steadfastness in defending the interests of the Ghanaian people, indicating that the NDC caucus remains committed to resisting any attempts to undermine the rule of law or subvert the will of the electorate.
Dr. Ato Forson Applauds Speaker’s Decision
Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Leader of the NDC Parliamentary Caucus, also expressed his gratitude to Speaker Bagbin for his recent decision to adjourn the House sine die.
According to Dr. Forson, this move by the Speaker was the right directive, particularly given the political circumstances surrounding the leadership of Parliament.
“We want to make something very clear, the NDC members of parliament are in the Majority in Ghana’s parliament. We’ve made our position, and it’s so clear.”
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, NDC Caucus Leader of Parliament
He reinforced the NDC’s interpretation of the Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament, which they argue support their majority status.
The party’s leadership emphasized it remains focused on ensuring that Parliament remains a space where the will of the people is expressed and respected, particularly as Ghana continues to navigate its political challenges.
Throughout its statement, the NDC emphasized its commitment to democracy and governance that prioritizes the needs of ordinary Ghanaians.
The party’s comments came at a critical juncture in Ghana’s political landscape, where parliamentary leadership, constitutional interpretation, and party dynamics are all in flux.
As the NDC continues to assert its role in Parliament, its relationship with Speaker Bagbin, as well as the broader parliamentary process, will remain central to Ghana’s political future.
In the coming months, how these dynamics play out will have significant implications for governance, legislative progress, and the balance of power in the country.
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