Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has achieved a significant international honor, being unanimously elected Chairperson of the 52-member Africa Geopolitical Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
The election took place on October 19, 2025, during the ongoing 151st IPU Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, an event that elevates Ghana to a pivotal position in global parliamentary diplomacy. This prestigious role further cements Rt. Hon. Bagbin’s status as an influential figure in international affairs, alongside his current roles as President of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL) and immediate past Chairman of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association International (CPA).
In his capacity as Chairperson, Speaker Bagbin will be responsible for coordinating and harmonizing the continent’s common positions on major IPU decisions and policies, acting as the primary representative for African parliamentary interests on issues like governance, peace, security, and sustainable development.
Following his endorsement, Speaker Bagbin pledged his commitment to fostering deeper collaboration and unity among African parliaments. He expressed gratitude to the African delegations, specifically mentioning the Nigerian delegation for seconding his nomination and applauding the Senegalese delegation for withdrawing their nominee in the spirit of African consensus.
The Speaker outlined his vision, which centers on championing transparency, consolidation of democratic governance, and strengthening legislative institutions across the continent. He takes over the leadership from Ms. Angela Thokozile Didiza, Speaker of the South African National Assembly.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
