Parliament and Civil Society Engage in High-Level Dialogue
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has engaged civil society organizations (CSOs) and think tanks in a high-level dialogue aimed at strengthening collaboration and enhancing Parliament’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen participation.
Addressing a forum of approximately 50 CSOs, Speaker Bagbin underscored the need for a governance system that extends beyond traditional democracy, advocating for greater inclusivity and participatory governance with civil society as a key pillar.
He acknowledged the crucial role CSOs play in strengthening democracy, particularly through research and data that inform policymaking. He cited key parliamentary initiatives, including anti-corruption efforts and local government reforms, which have been significantly shaped by civil society contributions. The Speaker also highlighted the work of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Caucus, which continues to promote open governance in Ghana.
“With Ghana’s top ranking in the 2022 Africa Open Parliament Index, these reforms reflect Parliament’s commitment to enhancing democratic processes through continuous partnership with civil society,” he noted.
Advancing Gender Equity in Governance
While commending the role of civil society in making Parliament one of the most open institutions in Africa, Speaker Bagbin called for stronger gender equity initiatives in governance. He urged stakeholders to support the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121) to ensure broader representation and inclusion.
To further strengthen accountability, he presented copies of the Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament to CSO representatives, reinforcing their role in holding lawmakers accountable.
Key Attendees
The event was attended by prominent Members of Parliament, including:
Hon. Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah – MP for Ho West & Chairman of the OGP Caucus
Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Acquah – MP for Akim Oda & Vice Chair of the OGP Caucus
Hon. Agyeman Prempeh – MP for Ahafo Ano North
Hon. Abednego Bandim – MP for Bunkpurugu
Also present were the Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, Deputy Clerk (IMS), Dr./Mrs. Gloria S. Kumawu, and other Parliamentary Service officials.
Participating Civil Society Organizations
The dialogue brought together leading CSOs, including:
IMANI Africa
Ghana Integrity Initiative
Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-GH)
Parliamentary Network Africa
Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG)
Star Ghana
Africa Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA)
Media Foundation for West Africa
Gender Center for Empowering Development
Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED)
Legal Resource Centre
Youth Advocate Ghana
This engagement reaffirms Parliament’s dedication to fostering an open, inclusive, and accountable governance system through continuous dialogue with civil society stakeholders.
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