Ghana’s 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic is set to be officially dissolved today, January 6, 2025, in preparation for the inauguration of the 9th Parliament. This event signifies the conclusion of the legislative term that commenced on January 7, 2021.
The dissolution will occur during a final session overseen by the Speaker of Parliament, the Right Honourable Alban Bagbin. In this meeting, Members of Parliament will finalize all pending matters and formally say their goodbyes to the chamber as their term concludes.
The 8th Parliament has been characterized as one of the most fiercely contested in Ghana’s history, with both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) holding an equal number of seats at the outset—137 each, along with one Independent Member. This unique situation frequently resulted in vigorous debates and intensified negotiations throughout the legislative process.
After the dissolution, newly elected Members of Parliament will take their oaths at midnight, signaling the beginning of the 9th Parliament.
This transition will also involve the election of a new Speaker or the potential re-election of the current Speaker.
The 9th Parliament is anticipated to address critical national challenges, including economic recovery, healthcare reforms, and electoral disputes arising from the recent general elections.
As the 8th Parliament concludes its term, the citizens of Ghana will be closely observing how the incoming legislative body fulfills its responsibilities in the forthcoming years.
