Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has called for the legislature to take the lead in compiling the next Constitution, emphasizing its representative composition and law-making authority compared to the other arms of government.
Speaking at the opening of a three-day orientation programme for Members of the 9th Parliament in Ho on Saturday, Speaker Bagbin argued that the Executive and Judiciary should no longer overshadow the Legislature in terms of status, as modern democracies were evolving towards a more balanced approach.
The orientation programme, however, was boycotted by the Minority caucus, who cited the high cost of holding the training outside the parliamentary chamber.
Organized by the Parliamentary Service and the Parliamentary Training Institute (PTI), the programme aimed to equip legislators with the knowledge needed to effectively perform their legislative, oversight, investigative, and regulatory duties.
Speaker Bagbin stressed that the heartbeat of democracy lies within the legislature, which serves as the nerve center of the people. He urged MPs to seize the next four years as an opportunity to enhance their role and make Parliament more attractive than the other arms of government.
“The next four years offer a critical opportunity for transformation. MPs must rewrite a new story for themselves and live it,” he stated.
He further urged members to ensure their presence in the House was impactful, rather than merely passing through.
“Focus, serve, and sacrifice. Don’t allow political differences to enslave you or be enslaved by our history,” he admonished.
Speaker Bagbin also paid tribute to former MPs Dr. Ibn Chambas, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and Ms. Hanna Tetteh, who currently serve in international roles, highlighting their achievements as a testament to hard work and perseverance.
Clerk of Parliament Emphasizes MPs’ Responsibilities
Clerk of Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, reminded MPs of their critical roles, including law-making, oversight, budget control, conflict resolution, and representation. He emphasized that understanding parliamentary procedures and institutional frameworks was essential for effective service.
“The task ahead is daunting but not insurmountable. Balancing constituents’ expectations with formal parliamentary duties requires careful consideration,” he noted.
He assured MPs of the Speaker’s commitment to continuous training to enhance their legislative capacity, with the Parliamentary Service providing procedural, legal, technical, and administrative support.
“Parliament is a distinct institution with its own norms and rules. MPs must make continuous efforts to acquire knowledge and learn from experienced members to navigate the complexities of their work,” he added.
Majority Leader Highlights Importance of Training
Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga underscored the importance of the orientation programme in equipping MPs with the skills necessary to uphold Ghana’s democratic standards.
“For us to maintain our high standing and continue being a model for other nations, we must strengthen our competencies and parliament through the acquisition of relevant tools and their effective use,” he stated.
The training programme will cover topics such as the rights of majority and minority caucuses, conflict management, consensus building, the legislative process, private members’ bills, and budget scrutiny. MPs will also be trained in advocacy, lobbying, and negotiation strategies to enhance their effectiveness in parliamentary duties.
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