Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament (MPs), urging them to respect the authority of the Speaker at all times, regardless of who is presiding over proceedings.
Addressing lawmakers in the aftermath of a heated confrontation in the chamber, Bagbin reminded them that the powers of the Speaker are enshrined in law and could significantly affect their political futures if fully exercised.
“Honourable Members, I don’t need to talk to you about the powers of the Speaker. They are clearly stated in the law,” he said. “If you read the Parliament Act 1965 and the Standing Orders of the House, they are colossal, and if fully applied, could be of danger to the career progression of Members of Parliament.”
Speaker Bagbin made these remarks following chaotic scenes on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 10, triggered by the First Deputy Speaker’s refusal to allow Effiduase/Asokore MP, Dr Nana Ayew Afriye, to deliver a statement.
Cautioning against confrontational behaviour, Bagbin emphasized that the Speaker’s rulings are final during sessions, and that existing legal procedures offer the proper avenues for challenging decisions. He condemned verbal abuse and disorderly conduct as unacceptable.
“Even a dog is obeyed in office,” he noted pointedly. “When we sit here, we are not saints, we are fallible, but there is a good reason we are called Right Honourable and you are called only Honourable.”
He appealed to the MPs to uphold the dignity of the House and adhere to its rules and procedures. According to the Speaker, Parliament’s reputation extends beyond national borders and is globally respected. “The Parliament of Ghana is highly ranked globally. People respect us. So, we are well-branded and marketed globally, and it inures to your benefit,” he said.
Bagbin advised the MPs to heed his guidance in their own interest. “I am getting to the end of my career, you are now starting, and so, allow the old man to mentor you properly.”
Citing his own extensive experience, Speaker Bagbin highlighted his service in continental and global parliamentary bodies. He currently chairs all Speakers across Africa and is the immediate past President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, which includes 182 Parliaments worldwide.
In closing, Bagbin took the opportunity to educate MPs on the correct procedure for filing statements in the House and warned those involved in the June 10 incident to refrain from further misconduct. He urged all legislators to diligently study the Standing Orders and avoid conduct that undermines the institution they serve.
