Bernard Ahiafor, Andrew Asiamah elected as Deputy Speakers
The Member of Parliament for Akatsi South, Bernard Ahiafor, has been elected as the 1st Deputy Speaker of Ghana's 9th Parliament.
His nomination, made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was seconded by the Deputy Minority Leader and endorsed by Members of Parliament.
Andrew Amoako Asiamah, the MP for Fomena, was also re-elected as the 2nd Deputy Speaker, a role he has held since January 2021. His selection reflects the continued trust in his leadership and ability to foster bipartisan cooperation in the House.
Bernard Ahiafor, a seasoned lawmaker from the Volta Region, has represented Akatsi South since 2013. A practising lawyer, he is highly regarded for his expertise in legal matters and his deep understanding of parliamentary procedures. He has served on several key committees, including the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee. His extensive experience is expected to enhance his contributions as 1st Deputy Speaker.
The elections for the Deputy Speaker positions followed the inauguration of the 9th Parliament in the early hours of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra. This event marked the official commencement of a new legislative session.
Earlier in the proceedings, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin was re-elected and sworn in as Speaker of Parliament by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Bagbin, who previously served as Speaker during the 8th Parliament, was re-nominated by the NDC and received overwhelming support. His re-election is seen as a critical moment in Ghana’s democratic journey, ensuring continuity and experienced leadership in Parliament.
Following his swearing-in, Speaker Bagbin presided over the oath-taking ceremony for 275 Members of Parliament-elect, with the exception of the representative for Ablekuma North. The ceremony, attended by family members, friends, and dignitaries, symbolized the beginning of a new legislative era in Ghana.
With the NDC securing a majority in the 2024 elections, winning 183 out of 276 seats, the party retained its leadership team for the 9th Parliament. The leadership includes Cassiel Ato Forson as Majority Leader, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as Deputy Majority Leader, Governs Kwame Agbodza as Majority Chief Whip, and Ahmed Ibrahim as Deputy Majority Chief Whip.