We need Constitutional Reform and Bipartisan Collaboration to Move Ghana –Speaker Bagbin

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, citing significant structural deficiencies that hinder the nation’s progress.

While acknowledging the constitution’s role in ensuring political stability, he expressed concern over the alarming concentration of power within the executive branch, which he believes undermines the balance among the arms of government.

“The foundation of Ghana’s democracy has several flaws and complexities, including the excessive concentration of power in the executive,” Bagbin stated during the University of Ghana Alumni Lecture, themed “30 Years of Parliamentary Democracy: The Journey Thus Far.”

This annual lecture series, established in 1974 at the university’s Great Hall, serves as a crucial platform for discussing national issues, making Speaker Bagbin’s insights especially relevant as the country reflects on its democratic journey over the past three decades.

In his address, Speaker Bagbin highlighted the rising partisanship within the legislature, warning that if lawmakers prioritize political agendas over the welfare of citizens, it could lead to public unrest. He pointed out the growing frustration among citizens towards elected officials who fail to prioritize the common good over party interests, emphasizing that such behavior undermines legislative progress and erodes public trust in governance.

“Citizens are increasingly frustrated with lawmakers who do not unite for the common good,” Bagbin remarked. He cautioned that a focus on party loyalty is overshadowing the essential duty to serve the public interest, which not only hampers legislative effectiveness but also reinforces the perception that Parliament is disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary Ghanaians.

The Speaker warned that if this trend continues, it could incite a revolt against elected officials who seem more concerned with political gains than genuine governance. He urged Parliamentarians to transcend partisan divides and commit to bipartisan collaboration.

Bagbin advocated for a renewed commitment to unity and cooperation among Members of Parliament, emphasizing that this is vital for restoring faith in the democratic process and fostering sustainable development for the nation.