The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has rejected claims that he prioritizes international travels over parliamentary business.
In response to a request to recall Parliament submitted by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader and MP for Effutu, Bagbin described claims that he takes unilateral decisions and prefers to travel instead of focusing on parliamentary work as unfortunate.
The request for the Speaker to recall Parliament was made under Article 112 (3) of the 1992 Constitution and Order 53 of the Standing Orders of Parliament, citing several urgent matters requiring immediate attention.
Addressing the request, the Speaker clarified the circumstances leading to the recent adjournment sine die of Parliament on July 30, 2024. This adjournment had drawn criticism, particularly from Hon. Afenyo-Markin.
The Speaker emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and due process, asserting that the decision to adjourn was neither sudden nor unilateral. He stated that the adjournment date was discussed and agreed upon in pre-sitting meetings weeks prior, as evidenced by official reports and recordings from July 6th, 11th, 25th, and 26th.
The Speaker explained that the adjournment was necessary to allow for essential retrofitting of the parliamentary chamber in preparation for the 9th Parliament. The urgency of addressing structural defects and replacing outdated equipment had been acknowledged by the leadership of the House and the Parliamentary Service Board.
Despite the Majority Leader’s proposal to extend the meeting to August 2, the Speaker highlighted the logistical challenges posed by the absence of both Deputy Speakers and the commitment of Parliament to attend an international conference in the United States. Furthermore, the Speaker pointed out that the Majority Leader’s claims of discussing the extension with Minority Leaders were inaccurate.
The Speaker also addressed the legal basis for the recall request, noting that it was made under Article 112 (3) of the Constitution and Order 53 of the Standing Orders, rather than Article 113, which pertains to emergency matters. The Speaker argued that the issues listed in the request, including the motion on a $250 million financing agreement, did not meet the threshold for an emergency recall, as many of these matters were already under consideration before the House adjourned.
Given the constitutional requirement, the Speaker is obliged to summon Parliament within seven days of receiving the recall request, by August 7, 2024. However, due to ongoing renovations and the impracticality of finding an alternative venue on short notice, the Speaker announced that Parliament will reconvene on September 3, 2024, at a location to be determined.
The Speaker reassured the public of his commitment to faithfully discharge his duties, maintaining the dignity and integrity of Parliament and its members.
