The inauguration of the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana has taken place, signifying the start of a new legislative session.
This significant event occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra, following the dissolution of the 8th Parliament at midnight.
Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, who has been re-elected as Speaker of Parliament, was sworn in by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Having previously held the position during the 8th Parliament, Bagbin was re-nominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and garnered substantial support from fellow Members of Parliament.
His re-election is a crucial milestone in the nation’s democratic development, as he brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role. After his swearing-in, Bagbin presided over the oath-taking ceremony for the 275 Members of Parliament-elect, with the exception of the representative from the Ablekuma North constituency.
The ceremony was attended by family, friends, and dignitaries, marking the onset of a new legislative chapter. This occasion holds significant symbolism for Ghana’s Parliament, reflecting the new political dynamics following the 2024 general elections.
With the NDC achieving a majority in the 2024 parliamentary elections by securing 183 out of 276 seats, the party has maintained its leadership team for the new Parliament. The NDC’s leadership team comprises:
Majority Leader: Cassiel Ato Forson (MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam)
Deputy Majority Leader: Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP for Ellembelle)
Majority Chief Whip: Governs Kwame Agbodza (MP for Adaklu)
Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Ahmed Ibrahim (MP for Banda)
NPP counsel, Gary Nimako Marfo, asserted that the injunction was improperly submitted and called upon the court to dismiss the petition, maintaining that election results can only be contested within 21 days following their gazetting. Notwithstanding the NPP’s assertions, the injunction remains effective pending additional hearings.
Following the legal decision, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin indicated that Ernest Kumi was prepared to engage in the swearing-in process and the subsequent election of the Speaker, even if it resulted in legal repercussions.
Conversely, Clerk Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror stressed that permitting Kumi to take part in the swearing-in ceremony would constitute a breach of the court’s order.
