The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has emphasized that the January 2024 Standing Orders provide an opportunity to address the evolving needs of Ghana’s parliamentary democracy.

The Speaker noted challenges in the processes and procedures of the House, highlighting gaps in the November 2000 Standing Orders.

He urged alignment with the January 2024 Standing Orders, emphasizing the need for adaptation as per the proverb, "When the drummers alter their beats, the dancers must adjust their steps."

Speaking at an orientation workshop for Members of Parliament and Procedural Staff in Ho, the Speaker acknowledged challenges arising from diverse interpretations, verbal disputes, tensions, and the Supreme Court's pronouncement on the November 2000 Standing Orders.

The current Standing Orders, effective from January 2, 2024, aim for the effective and efficient performance of Parliament and Parliamentarians.

The Speaker highlighted that Ghana’s Standing Orders are deeply rooted in the 1992 Constitution, embodying a "living organism" concept.

He stressed the dynamic nature of the document, adapting to societal changes, and cited Laurent Fabius, expressing the need for revisions to build the desired institution and country. Amid increasing public distrust post the 2020 general elections, the Speaker urged MPs to approach their work with diligence and innovation.

Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, emphasized the importance of the rules book (Standing Orders) as MPs' weapon. He advised MPs to take the rules seriously for meaningful contributions and survival in the face of intimidation. Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, commended the Speaker for the Standing Orders' revision, anticipating that the orientation would address members' concerns.

Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, highlighted contemporary challenges faced by Parliaments, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the unique nature of the Eighth Parliament.

He outlined new provisions in the January 2024 Standing Orders, such as the recital of the National Pledge and an increased number of Parliamentary Committees, reflecting the House's expanded focus on oversight.

“We must start aligning the conduct of business in the House with the evolving and changing trends and requirements of our Parliament. We need to know how to apply and cope with the January 2024 Standing Orders which has replaced the 2000 Orders. These are some of the reasons we are here today. As we say in Africa, “When the drummers alter their beats, the dancers must adjust their steps” he added.