Ghana’s 9th Parliament: Meet the youngest and oldest MPs

As debate intensifies over proposals to cap the age of parliamentary aspirants at 65, attention is turning to the current age range of persons in Ghana’s Parliament.

According to parliament.gh and data.ipu.org, Ghana’s Parliament still leans heavily toward older lawmakers, with a significant majority above 45 years, while only a small fraction falls below 40.

The renewed focus on age follows proposals by some lawmakers to cap the age of parliamentary aspirants at 65, sparking national debate about experience versus inclusion of the youth.

While older MPs bring institutional memory and governance experience, younger MPs are increasingly seen as critical to representing Ghana’s youthful demographic and driving innovation in policymaking.

Ghana’s 9th Parliament of the Fourth Republic continues to reflect a striking generational mix, with the young and old lawmakers serving side by side.

Eric Edem Agbana

At one end of the field is Eric Edem Agbana, the youngest Member of Parliament, representing Ketu North.

He was born on Tuesday 29th January 1991. At a young age, the 35-year-old MP has quickly emerged as a symbol of youth participation in Ghanaian politics.

He holds multiple degrees, including a Master of Science and two Master of Arts degrees from the University of Ghana, further studies at the University of Professional Studies, Accra and a certificate from the European University Institute in Italy.

Agbana’s political journey began with student leadership as President of the Student Representative Council (SRC) at the University of Ghana and he later served as Deputy National Youth Organiser for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) before winning his parliamentary seat in 2024.

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Known for his youthful energy, he actively champions initiatives for education, youth empowerment, and innovation in policymaking.

Bede Ziedeng

At the other end is Bede Anwataazumo Ziedeng the Member of Parliament for the Lawra Constituency in the Upper West Region of Ghana.

Born on October 22, 1954, in Eremon-Lawra, he has built a distinguished career grounded in law and public service.

The 72-year-old Ziedeng received his early secondary education at Nandom Secondary School, where he obtained both his O-Level and A-Level certificates in June 1978.

He later pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, earning a Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons) degree in September 1984.

Following this, he attended the Ghana Law School, where he qualified as a Barrister-at-Law in September 1986, marking the beginning of his professional legal career.

With his strong legal background, Ziedeng has contributed significantly to legislative work and governance, representing the people of Lawra in Parliament and advocating for development in his constituency.

Collins Dauda

On the hand, Collins Dauda, MP for Asutifi South and one of the oldest of the 9th Parliament of the fourth republic.

He was born on Wednesday February 13, 1957.

The 69-year-old Dauda began his professional life as a teacher after completing his education at Mim Senior High School and he entered politics through local governance, including membership in the Asutifi District Assembly and the Consultative Assembly that drafted Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.

Since first being elected to Parliament in 1992, Dauda has served multiple terms and held several ministerial roles, including Minister for Works and Housing.

His decades of experience and deep institutional knowledge have made him a respected mentor to younger colleagues and an influential voice in legislative debates.

While younger MPs bring fresh perspectives and dynamism, veteran legislators provide continuity and a wealth of governance experience.

MRA/AM

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