Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, on Monday, June 30, launched the Open Parliament Steering Committee and the Open Parliament Action Plan.

The launch of the committee and the action plan coincided with International Day of Parliamentarianism.

At the ceremony under the theme “Achieving Gender Equality: Action by Action," the Speaker reinforced the importance of open and inclusive governance.

The Speaker highlighted the critical role Parliament plays in translating the will of the people into inclusive legislation, responsive policies, and accountable governance.

“The International Day of Parliamentarianism is worth celebrating, as it offers an opportunity not only to recognise and promote achievements in strengthening democratic governance, but also to pause and reflect on the remaining gaps in institutionalising parliamentary democracy,” he said.

On his part, Majority Leader, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, noted that this marks the first time Ghana is formally observing the day.

“The gravity of our observance is further accentuated as we convene to witness the launch of the Open Parliament Action Plan by the Open Government Partnership Caucus,” he said.

Delivering a statement on behalf of the Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Patricia Appiagyei, described the Open Parliament Action Plan as a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening the relationship between Parliament and the public.

She said the plan represents a bold commitment to making Parliament more transparent, accessible, and responsive to the needs of Ghanaians.

Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, described the launch as a key milestone in the effort to build a citizen-focused and accountable Parliament.

He added that the International Day of Parliamentarianism is a call to action to recommit to the highest standards of public service and democratic accountability.

The inauguration was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including the Majority and Minority Members of Parliament (MPs), members of the Open Parliament Steering Committee, the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Caucus, Parliamentary Network Africa, representatives from civil society organisations, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional and religious leaders, student bodies, the Parliamentary Press Corps, and other media partners.