The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, is set to lead a Ghanaian delegation to Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, for the 67th Conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) International.

The conference, scheduled from November 3 to November 8, will see Speaker Bagbin, the Immediate Past President of CPA International, formally hand over leadership to the newly elected President, the Speaker of the Parliament of New South Wales.

As a prominent figure in international parliamentary organizations, Speaker Bagbin holds positions such as President of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSHAL) and is an Executive Member of the International Legislative Advisory Council of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) in the United States. His leadership in these roles has been praised for maintaining Ghana’s democratic credentials and strengthening legislative processes both domestically and abroad.

The Ghanaian delegation includes key parliamentary figures, including former Majority Leader and MP for Suame, Hon Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, along with the two House Leaders, two Whips, the Clerk to Parliament, and other officials of the Parliamentary Service. This diverse delegation represents Ghana's commitment to fostering international parliamentary relations and enhancing the nation's democratic standing.

Ahead of his trip, Speaker Bagbin met with a five-member delegation from Ghana’s Council of State, led by Chairman Nana Otuo Siribuor, who visited Parliament to discuss recent developments that led to an indefinite adjournment of the House. During the visit, Speaker Bagbin assured the Council of his commitment to resolving any parliamentary impasses and emphasized his dedication to upholding Ghana's democracy.

Notably, while he is expected to be in Australia for the CPA Conference, Speaker Bagbin has already initiated processes to recall Parliament in early November, following a request by Members of Parliament. He indicated that he plans to return to Ghana earlier than expected to oversee the House's recall.

The Council of State commended Speaker Bagbin for his exemplary leadership and contributions to Ghana’s democratic legacy. "Your efforts in efficiently handling legislative matters and representing Ghana in various international parliamentary organizations have kept the democratic credentials of the country high," said HRH Nana Otuo Siribuor, encouraging the Speaker to continue his work in the nation’s best interest.

The upcoming CPA conference will provide a platform for parliamentary leaders across the Commonwealth to discuss global issues, legislative governance, and shared democratic values, reaffirming Ghana's role in shaping parliamentary leadership on an international stage.