Accra: The Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, emphasized the need for greater transparency and accountability in governance as the institution marked the International Day of Parliamentarianism. The event coincided with the inauguration of the Open Parliament Steering Committee and the launch of the Open Parliament Action Plan.
According to Ghana News Agency, these activities collectively reflect the nation's progress in deepening democratic governance and promoting parliamentary openness. Celebrated annually on June 30 under the auspices of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the International Day of Parliamentarianism emphasizes the critical role parliaments play in translating the will of the people into inclusive laws, responsive policies, and accountable governance. This year's theme, 'Achieving Gender Equality, Action by Action,' challenges parliaments worldwide, including Ghana's Parliament, to adopt measurable and inclusive strategies for gender equity in representation, participation, and leadership.
In his address, Mr. Bagbin stressed the importance of collective commitment to strengthening the pillars of openness, accountability, and public trust in Ghana's democracy. He stated, "Let us recommit ourselves to building a Ghana where our Parliament is acclaimed as the most open, accountable, and responsive in Africa." Referencing Ghana's progress in embracing inclusivity and diversity in its democratic journey, the Speaker noted that Parliament ought to lead by example by ensuring the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act was effectively implemented by all political parties. He highlighted the need for greater female representation in parliament, noting that Ghana has only seen a 6.6 per cent increase in women's representation over the past 30 years, ranking 137th out of 168 countries.
Touching on the Open Parliament action plans, the Speaker explained that the plan was centered on four pillars: transparency, accountability, citizen participation, and harnessing technology and innovation to make parliamentary information accessible. He urged Ghanaians to seize opportunities created by the Open Government Partnership to demand transparency and hold leaders accountable.
While acknowledging the progress Ghana's parliamentary democracy has made, the Speaker cited significant persistent challenges, including limited citizen access to legislative processes and low levels of youth and gender inclusion. "The Open Parliament action plan aims to address these issues and create a more transparent and inclusive parliament," the Speaker said.
