**Rt. Hon. Speaker Alban Bagbin Highlights the New 2024 Standing Orders’ Role in Adapting to Ghana’s Evolving Parliamentary Democracy**
The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has emphasized that the January 2024 Standing Orders present a vital opportunity to address the evolving needs of Ghana’s dynamic and hybrid parliamentary democracy.
In his address at the orientation workshop for Members of Parliament and Procedural Staff in Ho, the Speaker noted that the November 2000 Standing Orders had shown significant gaps and deficiencies over time, particularly with the current composition of the House. He stressed the importance of aligning parliamentary procedures with contemporary trends and requirements. “We must adapt our conduct in the House to meet the changing demands of our Parliament. As we say in Africa, ‘When the drummers alter their beats, the dancers must adjust their steps,’” he remarked.
The Speaker highlighted that the outdated Standing Orders led to various challenges, including inconsistent interpretations of procedures, increased tensions, and even interventions from the Supreme Court. The new Standing Orders, effective from January 2, 2024, aim to ensure more effective and efficient parliamentary performance.
Bagbin described the Standing Orders as a “living document,” reflecting the dynamic nature of Ghana’s Constitution and the need for continuous evolution. He quoted former French Prime Minister Laurent Fabius, stating, “The revision of legal documents may not be without imperfections, but at least it won’t be rigid. It will be a necessary step towards building the institution and country we desire.”
He urged MPs to approach their work with diligence and innovation, acknowledging the growing public distrust towards Parliament. “The 2020 general elections highlighted this issue and underscored the need for vigilance in our approach,” he added.
Hon. Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, Deputy Majority Leader and MP for Effutu, emphasized the importance of the Standing Orders as a crucial tool for MPs. Reflecting on his own experiences, he advised colleagues to adhere strictly to the rules to effectively navigate parliamentary challenges.
Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, Minority Chief Whip and MP for Adaklu, praised the Speaker for leading the revision of the Standing Orders and stressed the importance of the orientation in addressing members’ concerns and familiarizing them with the new provisions.
The Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, also highlighted the necessity of updating the Standing Orders in response to contemporary challenges, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the unique dynamics of the Eighth Parliament. New practices include reciting the National Pledge weekly, conducting roll calls, and expanding Parliamentary Committees from 31 to 44 to enhance oversight.
The new Standing Orders are designed to address these contemporary challenges and improve parliamentary operations, reflecting the evolving needs of Ghana’s legislative environment.
