Bernard Ahiafor, the Member of Parliament for Akatsi South, has been elected the 1st Deputy Speaker of Ghana’s 9th Parliament.
His nomination was presented by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and seconded by the Deputy Minority Leader.
The MP for Fomena, Andrew Amoako Asiamah has also been elected the 2nd Deputy Speaker of Parliament, a position he has held since January 2021.
Bernard Ahiafor, a respected lawmaker from the Volta Region, has represented Akatsi South since 2013. A professional lawyer, he is widely recognized for his expertise in legal matters and parliamentary procedures. His extensive experience includes serving on critical parliamentary committees, such as the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee. His background is expected to strengthen his performance as the 1st Deputy Speaker.
The election of the Deputy Speakers took place following the official inauguration of the 9th Parliament in the early hours of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Parliament House in Accra. Earlier, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin was re-elected Speaker of Parliament and sworn into office by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Bagbin, who also served as Speaker during the 8th Parliament, was re-nominated by the NDC and received strong support from Members of Parliament. His re-election is seen as a pivotal moment in Ghana’s democracy, as he brings experienced leadership to the House.
Following his swearing-in, Speaker Bagbin administered the oath of office to the Members of Parliament-elect, except for the representatives from the Ablekuma North and Akwatia constituencies. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries, marked the beginning of a new legislative term.
The NDC emerged as the majority party in the 2024 elections, securing 183 out of the 276 seats in Parliament. As a result, the party has maintained its leadership team for the 9th Parliament, with Cassiel Ato Forson, MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam, serving as the Majority Leader. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP for Ellembelle, continues as the Deputy Majority Leader, while Governs Kwame Agbodza, MP for Adaklu, holds the position of Majority Chief Whip. Ahmed Ibrahim, MP for Banda, remains the Deputy Majority Chief Whip.
