Elections First, Parliament Later: Bagbin Rejects Majority’s Recall Appeal
Speaker emphasizes the need for MPs to focus on voter engagement and accountability ahead of December polls
- Speaker Bagbin rejects the Majority’s request to reconvene ahead of elections
- Bagbin emphasizes the need for MPs to engage voters and account for their mandate
- Parliament will resume after the elections to complete all essential legislative matters
Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has firmly declined a request from the Majority Caucus to reconvene Parliament ahead of the December elections.
The Majority, in a letter dated November 22, 2024, and signed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, had proposed an emergency session on November 28 and 29 to address pressing government business.
However, the Speaker emphasized that parliamentary proceedings will resume only after the elections.
In a memo issued on November 26, Bagbin stressed that the national interest is best served during this period by allowing political parties and candidates to engage with voters and account for their four-year mandate.
“The House will resume sitting after the elections to complete essential matters for a smooth transition to the 9th Parliament,” he stated, urging members to demonstrate honour, empathy, and humility in their duties. Bagbin further noted that the parliamentary calendar recognizes this time as a critical campaign period.
The request, therefore, was declined, reaffirming Parliament’s focus on a seamless transition post-elections.
