Speaker Bagbin Rejects Emergency Parliament Recall Request Ahead of Elections

Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has declined a request by Majority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin to convene Parliament for an emergency session. The request sought to address urgent government business ahead of Ghana’s December 7 general elections.

In a memo dated November 26, 2024, Speaker Bagbin explained that recalling Parliament at this critical time would disrupt ongoing electoral preparations. He emphasized that the parliamentary calendar already accounts for election campaign periods, during which Members of Parliament engage the electorate with their manifestos and accountability reports.

Bagbin noted, “The national interest would better be served if members exhibit conduct of honor, empathy, and humility in the performance of their duties.” He also highlighted the impracticality of the proposed two-day session, scheduled for November 28-29, as insufficient to handle the 22 urgent items on the agenda.

“In the circumstances, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favor of your request. The request is accordingly declined,” Bagbin stated in the memo.

The Speaker assured that Parliament would reconvene after the elections to address critical matters and facilitate a seamless transition to the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic.

The response follows an appeal by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Parliament for an emergency recall to deliberate on pressing government business.

See the full memo below.