In a historic move, the 8th Parliament of Ghana has recently introduced new Standing Orders, marking a significant shift in the proceedings within the legislative body. One of the key amendments entails the mandatory roll call of all Members of Parliament (MPs) at the commencement of each sitting, coupled with the recitation of the National Pledge of Ghana. This patriotic act, which reinforces the commitment to the nation, has been incorporated into the weekly routine of parliamentary sessions, following the morning prayers.
Moreover, substantial changes have been made to the structure of parliamentary committees, aiming to enhance specialization and efficiency in addressing pertinent matters. Notably, the Finance Committee, once comprising 25 members, has been restructured into three distinct entities: the Committee on Economy, the Committee on Finance, and the Committee on Planning. Each committee will now concentrate on specific areas of expertise, such as the economy, finance, and planning. Similarly, the Committee of Defense and Interior has also undergone division, further underscoring the Parliament’s dedication to fostering expertise and effectiveness within its committees.
Emphasizing the significance of these changes, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, underscored the importance of upholding parliamentary procedure and fostering a sense of national unity. Speaker Bagbin highlighted that the recitation of the National Pledge serves as a symbol of allegiance and patriotism to Ghana, as enshrined in Order 69, which mandates the weekly recital of the pledge at the commencement of each sitting week.
During the address to the House, Speaker Bagbin’s remarks were followed by a powerful display of patriotism as MPs stood up and fervently recited the pledge, affirming their unwavering commitment to the nation. This symbolic act serves as a poignant reminder of the collective dedication of the Parliament to the principles and values enshrined in the National Pledge.
The implementation of these new Standing Orders underscores the Parliament’s unwavering commitment to promoting accountability, efficiency, and national pride in its proceedings. As MPs continue to fulfill their legislative duties, these changes are poised to contribute to a more organized and cohesive parliamentary environment in Ghana, reflecting a forward-looking approach to governance and national representation.
This momentous development in the parliamentary protocol not only reinforces the solemn duty of MPs to the nation but also symbolizes a renewed dedication to the principles of unity, patriotism, and effective governance within the esteemed halls of the Ghanaian Parliament.
