As the 2024 general election draws nearer, the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has cautioned Members of Parliament, urging them to carefully balance their legislative duties with their campaign responsibilities.

In his address to Parliament during the 5th meeting of the Fourth session on Tuesday, October 15, Bagbin emphasised that while electoral campaigns are crucial, MPs must not allow their focus on these activities to overshadow their core mandate as legislators, particularly in the face of pressing national issues that demand urgent attention.

In his speech, Bagbin acknowledged the high demands that come with the campaign season, recognising the intense focus, time, and energy that MPs must dedicate to securing or retaining their seats in the upcoming elections.

Bagbin was unequivocal in his assertion that the legislative agenda before Parliament is of equal, if not greater, importance in the weeks leading up to the election.

“The legislative agenda ahead is weighty and we must approach it with the seriousness it demands. The Environmental Protection Bill, Parliamentary Service Bill, and Parliamentary Transition Bill, we must ensure that bills of a time-sensitive nature are scheduled for debate and decisions taken as soon as possible.

“It is understandable that the demands of campaigning will pull your time and energy. However, it is critical that we balance these demands with our legislative responsibilities.”