Bagbin dismisses constitutional crisis concerns, says Parliament is alive and working

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, has dismissed concerns of a constitutional crisis in Ghana, affirming the stability and functionality of the nation’s democratic institutions amidst recent political disagreements.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Speaker Bagbin quoted former U.S. President Barack Obama, stating,

“Democracy will work only if we fight for it.” He reiterated his commitment to upholding Ghana’s Constitution, emphasising, “I swore an oath to uphold, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana without fear or favour, affection, or ill will.”

Acknowledging recent political tensions, Mr. Bagbin reassured the public, “There is no constitutional crisis in this country. The Parliament of Ghana is alive and working. Let nobody mislead, misinform, or disinform you and the country.”

Bagbin clarified that the recent walkout by some NPP members, which disrupted parliamentary quorum, was a procedural disagreement and not an indication of institutional dysfunction.

He emphasized that such challenges are part of the democratic process as outlined by Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which anticipates occasional disagreements and has mechanisms in place for resolution.

“The democratic system we adopted and enacted recognises that disagreements will occur,” he explained.

“The system has put in place mechanisms, structures, institutions, processes, procedures, and rules to provide solutions. This is what is being perceived and applied,” he added.

Mr. Bagbin urged the public to trust in the country’s democratic processes and avoid panic or inflammatory language. “Let us stop pressing the panic buttons and fear mongering and allow the system to work. There can be no democracy without patience, tolerance, discipline, or collaboration.”

With over 32 years in politics and over 42 years as a public servant, the Speaker reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Ghana’s parliamentary institution, stating, “Parliament is alive and working. It has not been dissolved, prohibited, suspended, or terminated.”

He further stressed his mission to leave Parliament a stronger institution than he found it.