Speaker Bagbin Engages Media Editors to Deepen Parliamentary Transparency

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Honourable Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has held an Editors’ Forum with senior journalists and media professionals under the theme “Parliament and the Media: Strengthening Trust through Transparency, Accountability, and Accessibility.”

The forum sought to foster stronger collaboration between Parliament and the media, enhance journalists’ understanding of parliamentary processes, and promote public trust in the legislature.

In his address, Speaker Bagbin commended the media for its vital role in national development and acknowledged its contribution to his public service journey.

He described Ghana’s Parliament as one of the most open and accessible legislatures in Africa, crediting this achievement in part to the active involvement of the media.

He further stressed the importance of the Standing Orders in guiding parliamentary proceedings and reiterated Parliament’s commitment to transitioning toward a fully paperless system.

Highlighting efforts to boost transparency and accessibility, the Speaker announced the creation of a Public Relations cluster comprising Media Relations, Public Engagement, Broadcasting, and the Visitors Centre to strengthen collaboration between Parliament and the media.

Deliberations also addressed key issues affecting the media landscape, such as journalists’ welfare and remuneration, the need for responsible reporting, maintaining peace and stability, and the timely publication of parliamentary committee reports.

Both the Majority Leader, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, and the Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, emphasized the importance of continuous engagement between Parliament and the media, particularly in extending coverage to committee activities.

The Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, his Deputies, and Directors of the Parliamentary Service were also present to support the discussions.