The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin has broken his silence on the circumstances surrounding the adjournment of the House sine die on July 30, 2024, and the subsequent recall request made by the Majority Leader, Hon. Kwamena Afenyo-Markin.
In a statement issued by the Speaker of Parliament, he emphasized his commitment to transparency, accountability, and due process, adding that the decision to adjourn the House was not made unilaterally.
The Speaker explained that the adjournment date of July 30, 2024, was in line with the Parliamentary Calendar agreed upon during pre-sitting meetings with parliamentary leaders. He added that late sittings were held to ensure prioritized business was completed.
Speaker Bagbin addressed accusations that he prioritized international travel over parliamentary business, calling them “unfounded and made in bad faith.”
While acknowledging the constitutional requirement to summon Parliament within seven days of a recall request, Speaker Bagbin highlighted logistical challenges, including the unavailability of the parliamentary chamber and the poor condition of the Accra International Conference Centre.
The Speaker announced that Parliament would convene on September 3, 2024, at a venue to be determined, ensuring adequate preparation time.
In the statement, the Speaker of Parliament, reaffirmed his dedication to his duties and the principles of good governance, ensuring efficient and effective parliamentary procedures despite current challenges.
“In my capacity as the Speaker of Parliament, it is part of my duties to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and due process. It is also my duty to uphold the dignity and integrity of Parliament, MPs, Officers and Staff of the Parliamentary Service. I have throughout my tenure as Speaker, not only sworn but committed to doing exactly that with all my heart and with all my might.
“I am therefore duty bound to clarify the circumstances surrounding the adjournment of the House on 30th July 2024 and to correct any erroneous impressions that may have arisen as a result of the adjournment and the reactions thereafter. It is vital that the facts are understood clearly, and that the dignity and integrity of this institution remains unblemished”, he added.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
