In a dramatic closing to the current parliamentary session, Speaker Alban Bagbin urged lawmakers to end the culture of absenteeism and tardiness, telling MPs to “bury absenteeism and lateness with Christ.” The call came as Parliament rose sine die, marking the formal end of legislative business for the period.
Speaking to the chamber, Speaker Bagbin stressed that the nation expects diligence, accountability, and commitment from its elected representatives. He highlighted that habitual lateness and absenteeism not only hinder lawmaking but also erode public trust in democratic institutions.
The Speaker’s remarks have resonated widely, with political commentators praising the moral framing of his message, while others see it as a pointed reminder to MPs that their responsibilities extend beyond party politics. The statement underscores the growing public concern over parliamentary attendance and performance, a topic that has dominated discussions on political accountability in recent years.
As Parliament closes the session, the Speaker’s words leave a clear challenge: reform attendance culture, embrace responsibility, and ensure that lawmakers fully serve the Ghanaian people when the next sitting resumes.
