President-elect John Dramani Mahama's nomination of Alban Bagbin as Speaker of the 9th Parliament has sparked widespread reactions on social media from Ghanaians.
In a statement issued on January 5, 2024, it was confirmed that the nomination followed consultations and a mutual agreement between the National Executive and Parliamentary Leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The statement, signed by the Spokesperson of the Transition Team, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, highlighted Bagbin’s significant contributions and extensive experience in managing parliamentary affairs, emphasising his steadfast dedication to serving the country.
“Rt. Hon. Bagbin has distinguished himself in the service of Parliament, rising from Member of Parliament for Nadowli to Minority and Majority Leader, and subsequently serving as Speaker of the 8th Parliament.
“He brings a wealth of experience to the position, which will prove vital in steering the affairs of Parliament during this critical period in Ghana's democratic and legislative development,” the statement read.
The statement reaffirmed John Mahama's confidence in Alban Bagbin, emphasising his ability to promote unity and effectively fulfill Parliament's oversight responsibilities.
“The President-elect is convinced that under the stewardship of The Right Honourable Alban Bagbin, Ghana's Parliament will be further strengthened to deliver effectively on its oversight responsibilities,” it concluded.
In response to Bagbin’s nomination, many Ghanaians on X have expressed their support, highlighting his extensive experience and expertise as the key qualifications that make him the most suited candidate to oversee and competently lead parliamentary business in the incoming Parliament.
However, some critics have expressed displeasure with Bagbin’s nomination, arguing that Doe Adjaho, a former Speaker, should have been selected for the position, citing his loyalty to the party and the potential for the appointment to serve as a reward for the Volta region.
Read some of the reactions below:
Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin becomes the FIRST Speaker to be retained since 2000.
— Believe Kingsley (@Blv_kingsley) January 5, 2025
That man is doing so much in the Upper West there Chaley he deserve it!!
It is done. Glory be to Jehovah for this decision by JM.
— Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Esq. MP. (@etsedafeamekpor) January 5, 2025
The Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin is peerless. Factos pic.twitter.com/Hi3cOGFuhr
Alban Bagbin deserves the appointment.
— KOJO DYNAMIC 𓃵 (@AnnanPerry) January 5, 2025
John Mahama appeals for his Northern brother Alban Bagbin to be appointed speaker ahead of the Volta region’s Doe Adjaho in his administration making Doe Adjaho a 1-term speaker meanwhile they were both booted out in 2016.
— Fiifi Sage (@_Fiifi_Sage) January 5, 2025
If John Mahama believed in a comeback, then why not Doe… pic.twitter.com/DGPlRFZAKF
7 terms as MP
— January (@__NanaAma__) January 5, 2025
2 terms as Speaker
He is HIM! ALBAN SUMANA KINGSFORD BAGBIN
Speaker ooo Speaker!!!
BREAKING: H.E. John Mahama has mandated NDC Parliamentary Leadership to nominate Bagbin as Speaker of the 9th Parliament. With NDC holding a super majority, Bagbin looks set to continue as Ghana's Number 3. Happy Sunday to Auntie Becky! 😂
— Mirpuri (@InterBoyTM) January 5, 2025
Rt. Hon. A.S.K. Bagbin is a a legislator who understands the constitution and no one can influence his decision to kick out ineligible candidates from the chamber🥹.
— Muhammad Yaasiin (@Hajjyass70) January 5, 2025
H.E John Dramani Mahama means business.
So @JDMahama favors Alban Bagbin over Doe Adjaho as Speaker, sidelining Adjaho despite his loyalty. This shows how the Volta Region, a stronghold for the NDC, is often overlooked and undervalued.@DrEAmoakoh #PredictwithAlukyi #LIVMUN #CRYCHE #24HoursWithKaly #news360 pic.twitter.com/8qFmfRXtYk
— Rashid obolo (@RashidObolo) January 5, 2025
Who didn't see a a second Bagbin Speaker run coming? 🤡
— QUEENMOTHER 👸🏾 🇬🇭🇹🇬🇩🇰 (@fianyornu) January 5, 2025
History could have been made with a female. We've only had one in the history of all the republics. (Yes, a feminist agenda)
Congratulations Hon Rt. Speaker ASK Bagbin.
Speaker of 8th and 9th Parliament, Fourth Republic of Ghana.A man favored to be first in many things -
— Imma-Adiza Wastlyna Sammo (@wastlyna) January 5, 2025
Longest serving MP, longest serving speaker too.
Has bring in leadership position since the inception of Fourth Republic of Ghana pic.twitter.com/oZd9Q4LZCH