Parliament has elected Mr. Bernard Ahiafor, Member of Parliament for Akatsi South in the Volta Region, as First Deputy Speaker, and Mr. Andrews Amoako Asiamah, Member of Parliament for Fomena in the Ashanti Region, as Second Deputy Speaker.

The election took place during the proceedings of the 9th Parliament, presided over by Speaker Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

The two deputies will assist the Speaker in steering the affairs of the House.

Article 95(1) of the 1992 Constitution mandates that Parliament elects a Speaker from among its members or individuals qualified to serve as Members of Parliament.

The Constitution also requires the election of two Deputy Speakers to support the Speaker in fulfilling parliamentary duties.

The First Deputy Speaker is tasked with assisting the Speaker in managing parliamentary debates, ensuring adherence to the House’s rules and procedures.

In the Speaker’s absence, the First Deputy Speaker assumes full responsibilities, requiring impartiality and a deep understanding of parliamentary operations.

Similarly, the Second Deputy Speaker steps in when both the Speaker and the First Deputy Speaker are unavailable. Traditionally, the Second Deputy Speaker position is reserved for a member from the minority party, promoting balance and inclusivity in parliamentary leadership.

The election of Mr. Ahiafor and Mr. Asiamah reflects Parliament’s commitment to upholding these constitutional provisions and ensuring effective legislative governance in Ghana