The Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Alban S.K. Bagbin has underscored the significant contributions of various members of parliament, particularly highlighting the dedicated efforts of the Member of Parliament for Madina, Hon. Francis Xavier Kojo Sosu. Bagbin expressed his bewilderment over the competition Sosu faced, stating, “Through his ingenuity and hard work, we have achieved remarkable milestones.”
He elaborated on how Sosu’s initiative facilitated the passage of several crucial private member’s bills, which were instrumental in bolstering Ghana’s position on the global stage. According to Bagbin, these legislative accomplishments served as the foundation for the Ghanaian government, including President Nana Akufo-Addo, to advocate for the nation’s inclusion in the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Bagbin recounted a critical moment when the President returned from his diplomatic efforts, informing the parliament that he would not assent to certain bills. Notably, he reached out to Sosu directly, requesting digital copies of the bills to support his arguments during discussions.
Drawing from his experiences at various legal conferences and gatherings with jurists and fellow parliamentarians, Bagbin reflected on the collaborative efforts that led to the abolition of the death penalty, a pressing global issue. He noted the unique stance of the United States as the only major nation opposing this movement, while many other countries have recognized the flaws within their justice systems.
The Speaker emphasized the tragic consequences of wrongful convictions, where innocent individuals have faced capital punishment, only to later be exonerated. He asserted that substantial progress has been made, positioning Ghana prominently internationally. As the nation strives towards fulfilling the promises made to its citizens, Bagbin called for the collective commitment to realize the vision of a renewed Ghana.
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
