9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic Officially Inaugurated
Ghana’s 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic has been inaugurated, ushering in a new legislative session after the dissolution of the 8th Parliament at midnight on January 7, 2025.
The event, held at Parliament House in Accra, marked a significant milestone in the country’s democratic governance.
Alban Bagbin Re-elected as Speaker
Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin was re-elected as Speaker of Parliament, continuing his leadership from the 8th Parliament. His swearing-in was administered by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
Speaker Bagbin, nominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), garnered overwhelming support from Members of Parliament (MPs).
In his role as Speaker, Bagbin presided over the oath-taking ceremony for 275 MPs-elect, with the exception of the representative for the Ablekuma North constituency.
The event, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries, signified the commencement of a new legislative era and reflected the outcomes of Ghana’s 2024 general elections.
NDC Maintains Majority Leadership
The NDC, which secured a parliamentary majority with 183 out of 276 seats, retained its leadership team for the new Parliament. Key members include:
- Majority Leader: Cassiel Ato Forson (Ajumako Enyan Essiam)
- Deputy Majority Leader: Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (Ellembelle)
- Majority Chief Whip: Governs Kwame Agbodza (Adaklu)
- Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Ahmed Ibrahim (Banda)
Legal Challenge Over Akwatia Seat
The inauguration was overshadowed by a legal dispute regarding the Akwatia parliamentary seat. The Koforidua High Court issued an injunction on January 2, 2025, preventing Ernest Kumi of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) from being sworn in as the MP-elect.
This followed a petition filed by the NDC’s Henry Boakye Yiadom, citing irregularities in the December 7, 2024, elections.
Despite arguments by NPP counsel Gary Nimako Marfo that the petition was filed outside the legally mandated 21-day window post-gazettement, the court upheld the injunction.
Ernest Kumi’s exclusion from the swearing-in prompted Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin to express disappointment, suggesting Kumi was prepared to face legal consequences for participating in the ceremony. However, Clerk of Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror emphasized adherence to the court’s directive.
A New Legislative Era
The inauguration of the 9th Parliament marks the beginning of a crucial legislative phase in Ghana’s democratic journey. As the NDC takes the reins with a majority, attention will be on how the new Parliament navigates the evolving political landscape and addresses key national issues.
