Speaker Bagbin elected chairperson of Inter-Parliamentary Union Africa Geopolitical group

The Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has been unanimously elected as Chairperson of the 52-member Africa Geopolitical Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). The election took place during the ongoing 151st IPU Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland.

This significant appointment marks yet another milestone in Ghana’s growing influence in global parliamentary diplomacy and international relations. It also reinforces Rt. Hon. Bagbin’s stature as a respected global statesman and a distinguished leader in international parliamentary affairs.

Rt. Hon. Bagbin currently serves as President of the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (CoSPAL) and is the immediate past Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) International. His latest election further consolidates his role as one of Africa’s foremost advocates for democratic governance and institutional strengthening.

In his new capacity as Chairperson of the IPU Africa Geopolitical Group, Speaker Bagbin will be responsible for coordinating and harmonizing the continent’s common positions on major IPU decisions and policies. He will also represent African parliamentary interests at the global level, promoting Africa’s priorities in governance, peace, security, and sustainable development.

Delivering his inaugural remarks following his election, Rt. Hon. Bagbin expressed deep appreciation to all African parliamentary delegations for their confidence and solidarity. He commended the Nigerian delegation for seconding his nomination and lauded the Senegalese delegation for graciously withdrawing their nominee in the spirit of African unity and consensus-building.

He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening cooperation among African parliaments, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accountability, and democratic consolidation. The Speaker also outlined his vision to advance sustainable development and reinforce legislative institutions across the continent.

Rt. Hon. Bagbin succeeds Ms. Angela Thokozile Didiza, Speaker of the South African National Assembly, who leaves behind a legacy of excellence and commitment to the objectives of the IPU Africa Group.

Established in the early 1950s, the Africa Geopolitical Group serves as one of the IPU’s continental branches, promoting fair geographical representation on the Union’s Executive Committee and other statutory bodies. The Group plays a crucial role in preparing and coordinating Africa’s collective positions on key agenda items of IPU Assemblies and in nominating representatives to serve on its various committees and working groups.

Speaker Bagbin’s election is widely seen as a recognition of Ghana’s leadership in democratic governance and parliamentary development, and it positions the country as a central player in shaping Africa’s voice within the global parliamentary community.