Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban S.K Bagbin, has underscored the pivotal role of the media in enhancing Ghana’s democratic processes during an orientation workshop held for the Parliamentary Press Corps (PPC).
The training, focused on acquainting journalists with the revised Standing Orders of Parliament, marks a significant step towards fostering a more transparent, accountable, and participatory legislative environment in Ghana.
During his keynote address on Saturday, Speaker Alban Bagbin stressed the symbiotic relationship between the Parliament, the media, and the wider community.
“For members of parliament together with the parliamentary community, the press is a critical partner in transacting parliamentary business, which is the business of the people,” he emphasized, pointing to the media’s essential role in bridging the gap between the government and its citizens.
“There is a yawning gap between the representatives and the people, and that gap can only be linked and closed by a very important group of people or a very important institution referred to as media, both traditional and new media,” the speaker articulated, acknowledging the media’s indispensable role in reflecting the aspirations of the Ghanaian populace.
The revised Standing Orders, adopted by Parliament on December 21, 2023, and effective from January 2, 2024, represent a comprehensive update to the legislative framework in use for almost twenty-four years under the Fourth Republic.
The new Orders introduce modern practices such as the recital of the National Pledge, conducting parliamentary business through virtual platforms, and a clarified hierarchy of Parliament’s Leadership, all aimed at aligning with the evolving trends in parliamentary democracy.
“So time and practice have exposed gaps and usages in the old Standing Orders, which were detected as far back as 2001,” he added and underscored the critical nature of adapting to new processes and procedures.
The workshop served not only to familiarize the press with the provisions of the new Orders but also to arm them with the knowledge necessary for accurately conveying information to the public.
The initiative stressed the importance of the collaborative effort between Parliament and the media in promoting good governance and enhancing democracy in Ghana.
By closing the communication gap and ensuring that journalists are well-versed in parliamentary processes, the initiative is poised to pave the way for a legislative process that is more accessible and engaging for the Ghanaian people.
The workshop represents, therefore, a cornerstone in the efforts to enhance good governance and democracy, ensuring that the media continues to play its critical role in the democratic process effectively.