Lawuratu Musah-Saaka has expressed her concerns regarding the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin’s decision not to recall Parliament ahead of the December 7 elections.
Speaking on TV3’s NewDay show, Musah-Saaka emphasised the potential ramifications of Bagbin’s actions and suggested that the Speaker may need to apologise to Ghanaians after the elections.
“I pray it doesn’t come to a point where we reflect and say, once upon a time, a Speaker of Parliament—who had a distinguished career as a lawyer, served as both Minority and Majority Leader, was a former Health Minister, Chairman of a parliamentary committee, and even Works and Housing Minister—disregarded the ruling of the Supreme Court.
“This is someone who was also considered one of the ‘Three Wise Men’ during the John Mahama administration before becoming Deputy Speaker. Such a legacy should not be tarnished,” Musah-Saaka remarked.
Her comments come in the wake of a memo from Speaker Bagbin to the Majority caucus on Tuesday, November 26, explaining his decision to reconvene Parliament only after the elections. Bagbin stated that the session would address critical issues to ensure a seamless transition to the 9th Parliament of Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
“The House will resume sitting after the elections to complete all essential matters before a smooth transition to the next Parliament,” the memo read.
Bagbin also highlighted the need for professionalism and a focus on national interests in parliamentary conduct.
“The national interest would better be served if members exhibit conduct of honour, empathy, and humility in the performance of their duties. Under the circumstances, I am neither inclined nor disposed to exercise my discretion in favour of your request. The request is accordingly declined,” Bagbin noted.
Musah-Saaka’s critique reflects broader frustrations among political observers and stakeholders, who see the Speaker’s stance as potentially obstructive to addressing pressing national concerns before the elections.
Whether Bagbin’s decision will impact the post-election legislative landscape remains a subject of intense debate.
