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Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has emphasized the crucial role of active citizen participation in shaping Ghana’s democratic trajectory in an address at the Speaker’s Breakfast Forum on November 20, 2023,
The event, held at the Alisa Hotel, aimed to consolidate the relationship between Parliament and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) while reflecting on thirty years of parliamentary democracy under the Fourth Republic.
Under the theme, “Thirty Years of Parliamentary Democracy under the Fourth Republic: Reflections on Citizens’ Engagement and the Way Forward,” Mr. Bagbin acknowledged the existing gap between Parliament, MPs, and citizens, emphasizing its negative impact on Ghana’s democracy.
He stated, “This has created a disconnect between Parliament, MPs, and citizens and has also led to no appreciation of the work and value of Parliament and the Member of Parliament.”
The Speaker urged for enhanced civil education, broader inclusion of marginalized voices, and innovative approaches involving CSOs to strengthen democratic institutions, promote accountability and enhance citizen participation.
Mr. Bagbin highlighted the discrepancy in international and local perceptions, noting that while the Parliament of Ghana has been rated 88% effective internationally, the local rating by the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) Afrobarometer stands at 8%.
He urged collaboration between CSOs and Parliamentarians to engage with voters and deliver programs to enlighten the citizenry on the necessity of Parliament and the duties of MPs.
The program, organized in partnership with STAR Ghana Foundation to commemorate its 5th Anniversary and Parliament’s 30 years of uninterrupted parliamentary democracy, aimed to explore new ways of working together for accountable governance.
Dr. Esther Ofei-Aboagye, Chairperson of Star Ghana Foundation, emphasized that Parliament is the ultimate expression of Ghanaian citizenship.
She expressed hope that the adoption of the new five pillars of engagement, including information, education, and communication, would bring Parliament closer to the citizenry.
Deputy Minority Leader, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, acknowledged the dividends of a stable democracy and questioned how Ghana can consolidate this progress, especially in Parliament, which is at the forefront of the democratic journey.
