Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has addressed long-standing misconceptions about the role of Members of Parliament (MPs), emphasizing that their primary duty is to serve their constituencies and the Republic of Ghana, not just their political parties.
In a statement to the House on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Speaker Bagbin clarified that MPs must focus on the interests of their constituents, not simply follow party directives.
He rejected the notion that MPs are sole agents of their political parties, stressing that their oath is to serve the nation.
Constituencies first
“You are the Honourable Member for your constituency, and this House relies on you to give voice to the needs and concerns of your people. If you fail to represent their interests, you risk rejection by your voters at the next election, no matter how popular you may be within your party,” Bagbin said.
The Speaker reminded MPs that they are formally recognized by their constituencies, not their political parties, as outlined in the Standing Orders of Parliament.
He outlined three primary roles for MPs: representing their political parties, and their constituencies, and serving as public officers sworn to uphold the interests of the Republic.
“Your party identity is a vital part of your career as a Member of Parliament. However, you are not merely an agent of your party. You have sworn an oath to bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of Ghana, and it is the Republic, through taxpayers, that pays and resources you,” he emphasized.
He cautioned MPs against prioritizing party interests over national and constituency needs, reminding them that their obligation is to all their constituents, not just those affiliated with their party.
Role in Ghana’s democracy
The Speaker stressed the critical role Parliament plays in Ghana’s democracy, describing it as the “seat and heartbeat” of the nation’s democratic governance.
According to him, many Ghanaians, including MPs, often take this great institution for granted, treating it as secondary to the executive or judiciary.
“This fact should serve as a constant reminder to you of how indispensable this body is to the legitimacy, quality, and success of our democracy,” Bagbin said.
He contrasted Parliament’s inclusive nature with the executive, which he called “structurally a single-party branch,” and the judiciary, which he described as “non-partisan.”
New chapter
Speaker Bagbin explained the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the 9th Parliament, which he noted has a “radically different composition and party alignment” after the recent general elections.
He described the ninth Parliament as the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey, one filled with both challenges and opportunities.
He urged MPs to rise above partisan divisions and work collaboratively to strengthen Parliament and Ghana’s democracy.
By Osumanu Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com