Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has expressed optimism that a Private Member’s Bill currently before the House will soon be passed, despite earlier procedural and constitutional hurdles that delayed its progress.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Bagbin explained that the bill, which was first introduced during the Eighth Parliament, had to be reintroduced in the Ninth Parliament because parliamentary procedures do not allow for the automatic transfer of unpassed legislation between sessions.
He noted that the legislative process had encountered some setbacks — including the former president’s refusal to assent to the bill and debates over whether the current administration should adopt it as a government-sponsored bill.
However, the Speaker stated that both the Majority and Minority sides have shown strong bipartisan support, with indications that the President is now willing to give assent once it is passed.
Bagbin, who played a pivotal role in refining the bill’s language and enacting formula, assured that all technical and legal drafting issues were being resolved to ensure clarity, constitutionality, and smooth implementation.
Acknowledging the growing impatience among civil society organisations and advocates pushing for the bill’s passage, the Speaker urged calm and patience, stressing that Parliament’s priority was to pass a robust and enduring piece of legislation.
“We understand the expectations and the passion surrounding this bill,” he said.
“What we are doing is to ensure that when it is passed, it will stand the test of time and be implemented effectively.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Ghana’s legislative framework, ensuring that Private Member’s Bills receive the same level of attention, scrutiny, and support as those sponsored by the Executive.
Bagbin’s assurance signals that Parliament is approaching the final stages of deliberation on a bill that has captured significant national attention and debate since its initial introduction.