Speaker Bagbin Launches Two Books to Boost Parliamentary Literacy and Democratic Governance
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has officially launched two groundbreaking books authored by a staff member of Parliament, Mr. Benjamin Tachie Antiedu, aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and public understanding of Ghana’s parliamentary system.
The two publications, “Parliamentary Language in Ghana: The Citizen’s Guide” and “Subsidiary Legislation in Ghana: Principles, Practice and Procedure” were unveiled at a ceremony held in Parliament House, Accra.
The event attracted Members of Parliament, senior parliamentary staff, journalists, and stakeholders in governance and legal education.
Two justice of the Superior Courts of Judicature, Justice Frimpong of the Supreme and Justice Boateng of Court of Appeal graced the event.
Books Strengthen the Foundations of Parliamentary Democracy
In his remarks, Speaker Bagbin described the books as a major contribution to Ghana’s parliamentary scholarship and institutional memory.
“These texts will undoubtedly enrich our institution and support democratic development in Ghana. Today’s event is not merely a book launch; it is a celebration of institutional memory,” Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin said.
He emphasized that Parliament thrives on sound research, clear expression, and fidelity to constitutional values. According to him, the language of Parliament—shaped by history, tradition, and specialized procedures—must be understood by the very citizens Parliament serves.
The Speaker highlighted the need to demystify parliamentary terms such as Order Paper, Votes and Proceedings, Privilege, Hansard, and the often-misinterpreted expression “Hear, hear.”
He expressed appreciation to the author for dedicating the first book to him. He commended the second book’s dedication to the Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, and former Deputy Clerk, Mr. Eric Owusu-Mensah, whom he described as “outstanding parliamentary officers.”
“Books such as these enrich our institutional heritage and empower citizens to understand the processes that shape national decisions.”
He also underscored the importance of decentralization, calling for stronger capacity for local government institutions to effectively handle development responsibilities.
Books Come at a Critical Time
Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, praised the author’s devotion to legal education and parliamentary practice.
He emphasized that the books arrive at a time when public demand for transparency, accuracy, and accessible governance information is high.
“These books bring Parliament closer to the people and fill critical gaps in both civic and institutional knowledge,” Clerk to Parliament said.
He further highlighted the importance of collaboration and citizen engagement in strengthening public trust and informed decision-making.
Works Aim to Deepen Civic Education and Democratic Participation
Author Benjamin Tachie Antiedu, Esq., expressed deep gratitude to Parliament, mentors, colleagues, and family for their support throughout the writing process.
He explained that both books form part of a broader mission to enhance parliamentary literacy, deepen institutional memory, and make Parliament more accessible to ordinary Ghanaians.
“Democracy thrives only when citizens understand the institutions that serve them. These books support accurate research, reporting, and public engagement with legislative processes,”Benjamin Tachie Antiedu stated.
He acknowledged recent initiatives led by the Speaker—such as the Speaker Scholarship Scheme, the Post-Budget Workshop, and the Made-in-Parliament Procedure Week—as signs of a renewed, knowledge-driven parliamentary service.
The author dedicated Parliamentary Language in Ghana: The Citizen’s Guide to Speaker Bagbin, and Subsidiary Legislation in Ghana: Principles, Practice and Procedure to Clerk Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror and former Deputy Clerk Mr. Eric Owusu-Mensah.
High Interest as First Book Auctions at GH¢50,000
The launch ceremony drew strong interest from attendees, with the Speaker leading the auction of the first book at GH¢50,000, signaling strong support for parliamentary scholarship.
Participants, including parliamentary officers and members of the media, praised the author for his commitment to public service and his contribution to Ghana’s governance architecture.
Source: Felix Nyaaba/expressnewsghana.com
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