Bernard Ahiafor and Andrew Asiamah have been chosen to serve as Deputy Speakers
The Akatsi South Member of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, has been appointed as the 1st Deputy Speaker of Ghana’s 9th Parliament. His candidacy, proposed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), received support from the Deputy Minority Leader.
Additionally, Andrew Amoako Asiamah, who represents Fomena, has been named as the 2nd Deputy Speaker of Parliament and has held this role since January 2021.
Bernard Ahiafor is an experienced politician from the Volta Region and has served the Akatsi South constituency since 2013. He is a practicing attorney and is well-regarded for his knowledge in legal issues.
He has participated in various important parliamentary committees, such as the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.
His extensive background in legal matters and parliamentary protocols is anticipated to greatly benefit his position as 1st Deputy Speaker.
The selection of the Deputy Speakers took place after the official inauguration of the 9th Parliament, which was held in the early hours of Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Parliament House in Accra.
Previously, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, who was re-elected as Speaker of Parliament, took his oath of office administered by Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo. Bagbin, who served as Speaker in the 8th Parliament, was re-nominated by the NDC and secured wide support from Members of Parliament. His reappointment is seen as a significant step in Ghana’s democratic progress, as he continues to lead the House with experience.
After taking the oath, Speaker Bagbin oversaw the ceremony for the 275 elected Members of Parliament, with the exception of the representative from the Ablekuma North constituency. This event, attended by relatives, friends, and dignitaries, marked the start of a new legislative period.
With the NDC winning the majority in the 2024 elections by capturing 183 out of the 276 parliamentary seats, the party has maintained its leadership structure for the 9th Parliament. The leadership team for this new session includes:
Majority Leader: Cassiel Ato Forson (MP for Ajumako Enyan Essiam)
Deputy Majority Leader: Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP for Ellembelle)
Majority Chief Whip: Governs Kwame Agbodza (MP for Adaklu)
Deputy Majority Chief Whip: Ahmed Ibrahim (MP for Banda)
