Today, January 6, 2025, Ghana’s 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic will formally dissolve, ending its legislative term that started on January 7, 2021, and preparing the way for the 9th Parliament’s inauguration.
The Speaker of Parliament, the Right Honourable Alban Bagbin, will preside over a last sitting during which the dissolution procedure will take place. After completing any outstanding business, members of Parliament will formally adjourn, ending their term.
With one independent member and an equal number of members (137 each) from the beginning, the 8th Parliament was marked by an unusually close race between the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This unique balance frequently led to intense debates and negotiations during the legislative process. Following the dissolution, newly elected Members of Parliament will be sworn in at midnight, commencing the 9th Parliament.
This transition will also involve the election of a new Speaker, or the re-election of the current Speaker if that is the outcome. The 9th Parliament is anticipated to address pressing national issues, including economic recovery, healthcare reforms, and electoral disputes stemming from the recent general elections.
As the 8th Parliament concludes, Ghanaians will be closely observing how the next legislative body fulfills its responsibilities in the coming years.
Clerk of 8th Parliament Urges Parliamentarians To Prioritize Constituents
Meanwhile, the Clerk of Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, has urged incoming members of the 9th Parliament to prioritize their parliamentary duties and serve the interests of their constituents over partisan agendas. In an interview with Citi News, Mr. Djietror emphasized that once sworn into office, Members of Parliament must commit to addressing the needs and concerns of their constituents, ensuring their work reflects the aspirations of the people they represent.
He reminded the incoming MPs of the crucial role Parliament plays in national development and encouraged them to discharge their duties with integrity and dedication. “Members of Parliament-elect must apprise themselves about their roles. Members of Parliament are not in Parliament to reinforce party positions, or to pursue party interests. Political parties come to power based on a manifesto. The manifesto is supposed to contain policies that would further the interest and the development of the nation.”
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