Speaker of the Ghanaian Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called on African nations to demonstrate greater solidarity and cooperation within the framework of Pan-Africanism to foster democracy, political stability, and development across the continent. Speaking at the National Assembly of Côte d’Ivoire, Speaker Bagbin intimated the need for collective efforts among his fellows to meet the aspirations of the African people.
Presiding over the First Ordinary Session of the year, the President of the National Assembly of Côte d’Ivoire, H.E. Adama Bictogo, urged Africans to identify and implement common solutions to the continent’s challenges at both bilateral and multilateral levels. While extolling the various Speakers, for their attendance he recognised that their presence demonstrated trust and ongoing support for the parliamentary institution, while also symbolizing African integration and sub-regional cooperation.
Speaking in his capacity as the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL), Speaker Bagbin, described the session as an ideal platform for African legislators to work together on issues of constitutional democracy, good governance, and sustainable development. This he said will contribute to stronger regional institutions and unity across the continent. On the economic front, Speaker Bagbin called for closer cooperation within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He highlighted the importance of enhancing trade, developing industrial capacities, and accelerating industrialisation to maximise African countries’ competitive advantages and strengthen the continent’s position in global trade.
Reflecting on Ghana’s recent political landscape, Bagbin extolled the peaceful transition of power from the ruling party to the opposition in the 2024 elections. He described it as a clear sign of the country’s commitment to moving from the consolidation to the entrenchment of democracy. Bagbin underlined the need to support parliaments and democratic institutions that promote good governance in the region.
Speaking on security, Speaker Bagbin intimated the need for regional cooperation in combating terrorism, particularly in West Africa, where terrorism is spreading southward. He also called for a united approach to resolving conflicts and preventing instability, which continues to undermine national cohesion across the continent. Additionally, Bagbin called for the urgent need for cooperation to address the challenges posed by climate change and other existential threats facing Africa.
While reaffirming Ghana’s continuous support for the National Assembly of Côte d’Ivoire the Rt Hon Speaker, noted the historical and cultural ties between the two countries that have fostered collaboration in various spheres, particularly in promoting peace and development within the West African sub-region. Bagbin praised the growth of parliamentary diplomacy between the two nations, which has become an essential pillar in strengthening bilateral relations. “The Parliament of Ghana greatly values this relationship and assures you of Ghana’s commitment to foster stronger partnership to promote democracy, peace, trade, and development, for our respective countries” He added.
Addressing the National Assembly in turns and solidarity with Côte d’Ivoire, the President of the National Assembly, of Senegal, Malick Ndiaye, stressed the significance of the session, noting that their participation not only strengthens sub-regional parliamentary integration but also builds global political alliances. Ndiaye called for ongoing dialogue among African legislators to effectively address common challenges and advance shared goals.
Kodjo Sevon-Tepe Adedze, President of Togo’s National Assembly, spoke of the power of parliamentary diplomacy as a unifying tool, particularly during times of uncertainty. He asserted that legislators have a critical role in fostering economic growth and innovation, ensuring that every voice, especially those of youth, women, and marginalized groups, is represented in shaping Africa’s future.
The President of the National Assembly of Benin, Gbehounou Louisa VLAVONOU, called for a pragmatic approach to Africa’s development, postulating that the continent needs practical solutions in the interest of its people, not ideological frameworks. VLAVONOU underlined that African legislators must focus on tangible development priorities and strengthen West African parliamentary relations to consolidate the continent’s collective power.
Acknowledging Côte d’Ivoire’s rapid economic growth, Godswill Obot Akpabio, President of Nigeria’s Senate, described the gathering as a moment for legislative renewal and mutual respect. Akpabio urged African legislators to unite, stressing the need for long-term cooperation over quick solutions, in the interest of Africa’s sustainable development.
Parliamentary leaders who attended the ceremony were formally received with a Guard of Honour parade.
Background
Côte d’Ivoire’s legislature is a bicameral system, comprising the National Assembly and the Senate. The National Assembly has 255 members, directly elected for a five-year term.
