Parliament is scheduled to reconvene today, Monday, December 16, 2024, at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC). This marks the first session since the significant general elections held on December 7.
The meeting’s location was confirmed through an official circular issued by the Speaker’s Office on December 11.
In a prior communication dated December 2, 2024, Speaker Alban Bagbin called for Parliament to resume its duties, highlighting the significance of this session in light of the recent political changes.
2024 Polls: A Significant Transformation in Parliament
The elections on December 7 have significantly altered Ghana’s political dynamics, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) achieving a parliamentary majority.
Notably, several prominent Members of Parliament from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), including Ursula Owusu-Ekulful, Henry Quartey, KT Hammond, and Andy Appiah Kubi, have lost their positions, thereby shifting the power dynamics within the legislature.
The NDC’s success also extended to the presidential election, where John Dramani Mahama triumphed over the NPP’s candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Speaker’s Decision to Delay Pre-Election Session
Prior to the elections, the Majority Caucus, under the leadership of Alexander Afenyo-Markin, had consistently urged Speaker Bagbin to reconvene Parliament for pressing legislative issues.
However, Speaker Bagbin rejected these appeals, asserting that parliamentary activities would remain on hold until after the elections.
This decision led to discussions among lawmakers, with some expressing concerns regarding the timing of the reconvening and its potential effects on governance.
Today’s session is anticipated to tackle essential post-election matters, including the transition to a new administration and deliberations on key legislative priorities for the incoming government.
