To prepare for the inauguration of the 9th Parliament, Ghana’s 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic will formally dissolve today, January 6, 2025. The legislative term that started on January 7, 2021, comes to a close with this.
The Speaker of Parliament, the Right Honourable Alban Bagbin, will preside over a last sitting during which the dissolution procedure will take place. Members of Parliament will wrap up any unfinished business during this session and properly say goodbye to the chamber as the term draws to a close.
With the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the government New Patriotic Party (NPP) holding an equal number of seats at the beginning of the 8th Parliament (137-137 with one Independent Member), it has been one of the most fiercely contested in Ghana’s history. During the legislative process, this particular balance frequently resulted in heated discussions and more rigorous talks.
The 9th Parliament will begin at midnight with the swearing-in of newly elected members of Parliament following the dissolution.
Additionally, a new Speaker will be elected during this transition, or the incumbent Speaker will continue if re-elected.
Prominent national issues, including as healthcare reforms, electoral conflicts resulting from the recent general elections, and economic recovery, are anticipated to be addressed by the 9th Parliament.
As the 8th Parliament ends its term, Ghanaians will be watching closely to see how the next legislative body navigates its mandate in the years ahead.
