The role of the Speaker of Parliament is one of the most powerful in Ghana’s democratic setup. It requires impartiality, wisdom, and foresight to balance the interests of the government, opposition, and the people.
Unfortunately, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has fallen short of these expectations.
His tenure as Speaker of the 8th Parliament has been plagued by poor judgment, political overreach, and avoidable controversies.
Bagbin’s legacy as Speaker is not one of distinction but of division, questionable decisions, and missed opportunities to strengthen Ghana’s democracy.
If the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and John Mahama wants to see a strong and effective Parliament in the 9th term, it must reconsider its decision to retain Bagbin.
In my view, it’s time for him to retire gracefully, allowing a fresh and more capable leader to emerge.
Bagbin’s time as Speaker has been marked by key instances that highlight his unsuitability for the role:
The Ken Ofori-Atta Censure Debacle: When Parliament initiated a motion to censure Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta over his handling of the economy, it was a moment for the legislature to assert its authority and hold the executive accountable.
However, instead of allowing a straight vote on the motion, Bagbin referred the matter to an ad hoc committee—a move that diluted the urgency and gravity of the issue.
This decision not only delayed the process but also emboldened the executive to continue its reckless economic policies. Parliament’s oversight role was undermined, and Bagbin must bear responsibility for that failure.
Public Declaration on the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill: Bagbin’s open support for the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill was another glaring misstep. By publicly declaring that Parliament would pass the bill, he compromised the neutrality of his office. The Speaker is expected to facilitate debate and ensure that all sides are heard—not to dictate outcomes.
His comments were seen as a breach of his impartiality, raising concerns about whether he could be trusted to handle other contentious issues without bias.
Delaying Budget Over Self-Serving Demands: One of the most disturbing episodes of Bagbin’s speakership was his insistence that the Finance Minister allocate 2% of the national budget to Parliament before he would approve the budget. This self-serving demand delayed the budget approval process at a critical time for the country.
While it is important for Parliament to be adequately funded, holding the entire budget process hostage to secure more money for the legislature showed poor judgment and misplaced priorities.
Misinterpreting the Role of Speaker as a Separate Power: Bagbin has often acted as if the Speaker’s office is an autonomous power in Ghana’s governance structure, independent of Parliament itself.
This misunderstanding of his role has caused friction between the Speaker’s office and MPs, creating unnecessary tension.
The Speaker is meant to serve Parliament, not dominate it. Bagbin’s overreach has only served to weaken the institution he was supposed to strengthen.
General lack of tactical awareness
Bagbin’s leadership style has been marked by pride and a lack of tactical awareness. He often fails to anticipate the consequences of his actions, lacking the political tact to know when to push forward and when to hold back.
Leadership requires foresight, the ability to read situations and make calculated moves. Bagbin’s tenure has shown that he lacks this vital skill, often making decisions that lead to unintended consequences for both Parliament and the country.
Knowing when to stop is a gift not many leaders possess. Unfortunately, Bagbin seems to be among those who struggle with this essential quality.
James Avedzi would have been a better choice for the 9th Parliament in my opinion
Left to me, Bagbin should retire. He has served Ghana well, but his time as Speaker has been marred by serious errors that have weakened Parliament.
It’s time for a new Speaker to emerge—someone who can restore confidence in the institution and provide the steady leadership that Parliament needs.
I believe Hon. James Klutse Avedzi would be a suitable replacement. His experience as Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee and his calm, methodical approach to politics make him a strong candidate.
Avedzi’s financial expertise would be invaluable in guiding Parliament through the economic challenges that lie ahead.
While the NDC leadership has decided to retain Bagbin as Speaker, I respectfully disagree with that decision.
His tenure has been far from stellar, and his continued leadership poses risks to Parliament’s effectiveness and credibility.
And I expect the new NDC MPs to know, however, as loyal party members who put their party first always, I expect them to follow the clarion call of their President. But let’s be clear: Bagbin’s legacy as Speaker will be one of missed opportunities and controversial decisions.
It’s time for him to step aside and allow new leadership to steer Parliament towards a more effective and accountable future.
For the good of Ghana’s democracy, we need a Speaker who embodies fairness, impartiality, and wisdom. Sadly, Bagbin has shown that he is not that person.
