The National Democratic Congress (NDC) caucus in Parliament has nominated Bernard Ahiafor, Member of Parliament-elect for Akatsi South, for the position of First Deputy Speaker in the upcoming 9th Parliament.
The decision, reportedly reached during a caucus meeting on Monday morning, comes as the NDC positions itself for leadership roles in Parliament following its impressive electoral performance, securing nearly two-thirds of parliamentary seats with 183 MPs declared for the party.
The Role of Deputy Speakers in Parliament
In accordance with Article 95(1) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, Parliament is required to elect a Speaker and two Deputy Speakers from among its members or individuals qualified to serve as MPs. The First and Second Deputy Speakers assist the Speaker in managing parliamentary proceedings and ensuring adherence to procedural rules.
The First Deputy Speaker also assumes the Speaker’s role in their absence, a position that requires impartiality and a comprehensive understanding of parliamentary rules and practices. 
By convention, the Second Deputy Speaker role is often reserved for the minority caucus or opposition, though the NDC’s near-supermajority grants them significant leverage in determining leadership appointments in the new Parliament.or?
Bernard Ahiafor, a seasoned MP for Akatsi South since 2013, has been a prominent figure in Parliament and a trusted member of the NDC. A practicing lawyer, he has served on critical committees such as the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, earning respect for his expertise in legal matters.
Ahiafor’s nomination reflects the NDC’s focus on leveraging experienced and capable leaders to strengthen parliamentary oversight and legislative efficiency.
Parliamentary Leadership and Strategic Appointments
The NDC has also reaffirmed its support for the re-election of the current Speaker, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, for a second term. Bagbin’s stewardship in the 8th Parliament has been widely praised for fostering debate and maintaining balance in a politically divided House.
With the first and second deputy speaker roles critical to parliamentary operations, the NDC is strategically placing trusted individuals in key positions to ensure effective governance and oversight. While the Second Deputy Speaker slot has traditionally been allocated to the opposition, the NDC’s parliamentary majority allows them the flexibility to propose candidates from within their caucus if they choose.
What’s Next?
The election of the Speaker and Deputy Speakers for the 9th Parliament will take place during the inaugural session on January 7, 2025. This session marks the official start of the new Parliament and the swearing-in of President-elect John Dramani Mahama and Vice President-elect Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
As Parliament prepares to play a pivotal role under the new administration, the selection of experienced leaders like Bernard Ahiafor positions the legislature to effectively navigate the challenges of the coming years.
About Bernard Ahiafor
Bernard Ahiafor has represented Akatsi South in Parliament since 2013. His legal background and extensive experience in parliamentary processes make him a natural fit for the First Deputy Speaker role.
He has been an influential member of the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, where his contributions have been widely recognized. Ahiafor’s expertise and dedication to public service have made him a respected figure within and beyond the NDC caucus.
Conclusion
The nomination of Bernard Ahiafor as First Deputy Speaker underscores the NDC’s commitment to appointing skilled and experienced leaders in Parliament. With the party’s significant majority, the NDC is well-positioned to shape the legislative agenda and ensure robust oversight during the new administration.
Ahiafor’s legal acumen and parliamentary experience make him an excellent choice for the role, reflecting the NDC’s strategic focus on effective governance and representation in Ghana’s 9th Parliament.
