I can’t recall Parliament due to upcoming elections – Bagbin to Majority

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has stated that the House cannot reconvene ahead of the December elections.

This response comes after the Majority Caucus appealed for an emergency recall to address pressing government business.

In a letter dated November 22, 2024, and signed by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the caucus proposed November 28 and 29 as potential dates for the session.

However, the Speaker maintained that parliamentary activities will remain on hold until after the elections.

Bagbin, in a memo to the majority on Tuesday, November 26, noted that “The House will resume sitting after the elections to complete all essential matters before a seamless transition to the 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana.”

“The national interest would better be served if members exhibit conduct of honour, empathy, and humility in the performance of their duties. In the circumstances, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favour of your request. The request is accordingly declined.”

Bagbin told Afenyo-Markin that he was aware the parliamentary calendar acknowledged election campaign periods.

“This season is for the government, parties, and both presidential and parliamentary candidates to present their manifestoes to the people and to account and justify the mandate given them by the voters for the four-year term of office has been applied to the benefit of the people,” he added