Speaker Alban Bagbin Declines Request to Recall Parliament for Pre-Election Sittings
Isaac Mintah 
The Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has officially declined a request by the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, to recall Parliament for a two-day sitting on November 28th and 29th.
The request sought to deliberate on 22 items described as "urgent or outstanding government business."
The Speaker's decision, communicated through a memo dated November 26, 2024, highlights significant concerns regarding the timing of the proposed sittings. Bagbin emphasized that the parliamentary calendar aligns with the current election season, which is a critical period for campaigning and presenting manifestos to the electorate.
"This season is for the Government, Parties, and both presidential and parliamentary candidates to present their manifestoes to the people, and to account and justify how the mandate given them by the voters for the four-year term of office has been applied," the Speaker noted.
Citing constitutional provisions under Article 296 and the Standing Orders of Parliament, Bagbin expressed that convening Members of Parliament at such a crucial time for campaigns could disrupt the activities of political parties and candidates.
"It would not be in the national interest to interrupt the campaigns of members and parties by a recall to plenary sitting of Parliament," he stated, adding that it would also be impractical to address 22 proposed items within just two days.
Bagbin advised that government prioritize the listed matters and consider addressing them after the December 7 elections, once the parliamentary transition to the 9th Parliament begins.
Stressing the importance of national interest and the conduct of Parliament members, he urged the government to focus on ensuring a seamless transition and fostering "honor, empathy, and humility in the performance of their duties."
This development raises questions about the readiness of Parliament to handle critical issues amidst heightened political activity. It also underscores the balancing act required to fulfill legislative obligations without compromising democratic processes during election periods.
Stay tuned for updates on how this decision impacts government business as Ghana approaches its much-anticipated elections.
