Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has charged new Members of Parliament (MPs) to remain focused and work diligently to address the nation’s challenges.

He emphasized the importance of defending party positions with reasoning rather than emotion.

Bagbin acknowledged that the task ahead would not be easy but expressed confidence in the new MPs, stating that the success of their parties rested on their shoulders.

The Speaker made these remarks at the opening of a four-day induction and orientation program for new MPs of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic at Parliament House, Accra, on Saturday.

The orientation aimed to equip new MPs with the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to perform their duties effectively and contribute to the smooth functioning of Parliament.

It covered essential topics to prepare the new entrants for their roles.

The orientation, which is the first part of a two-phase programme organized by the Parliamentary Service for the new MPs, provided a solid foundation with an overview of Parliament’s functions, such as processing legislation, conducting oversight, and representing constituents.

The new MPs also learned about the Parliamentary Service, which facilitates the work of Parliament through support services, including the provision of information, research, and administrative support.

Additionally, they were introduced to the role of the Clerk to Parliament, who serves as the principal advisor to the Speaker and MPs on matters of privilege, practice, and procedure.

The new MPs had the opportunity to interact with experienced parliamentarians and learn from their experiences.

Through the tutelage of experienced resource persons, the orientation and induction program offered the new MPs a comprehensive understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and entitlements, enabling them to effectively serve their constituents and contribute to the legislative process.

“As you grapple with the complexities of Parliament, network among yourselves, share ideas, and mobilize resources to develop your constituencies,” he advised.

Bagbin further urged the new MPs to honor their titles, live uprightly with integrity, and serve as role models to others.

He also assured them of his support and expressed optimism about transforming the nation together over the next four years.

As the current Speaker of the Ninth Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, Bagbin’s leadership and guidance will be crucial in shaping the legislative agenda and promoting effective governance.

Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Deputy Majority Leader, emphasized the importance of the new MPs familiarizing themselves with Parliament’s rule books, specifically the Standing Orders and the 1992 Constitution, to enhance their performance in the House.

He spoke on behalf of Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Majority Leader.

Similarly, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, encouraged the new MPs to broaden their knowledge of Parliamentary procedures by studying the Standing Orders, Hansard, and the 1992 Constitution.

He also advised them to cultivate new friendships and make the most of their time in Parliament.

Both leaders stressed the significance of understanding Parliamentary rules and procedures to effectively serve their constituents and contribute to the legislative process.

Bernard Ahiafor, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, shared valuable advice with the new MPs, drawing from his own experience. Despite not having the opportunity to undergo orientation due to his late election to Parliament, he took the initiative to learn the rules of the House.

He emphasized the importance of familiarizing oneself with the Standing Orders of the House, urging new members to make it their “second Bible.”