Bernard Bediako Aidoo and Professor Alidu Seidu Mahama
Parliament yesterday swore in two newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs), Bernard Bediako Aidoo, representing Akwatia, and Professor Alidu Seidu Mahama, representing Tamale Central.
The ceremony was presided over by Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin in accordance with Article 100 of the 1992 Constitution and Order 13 (1) of the Standing Orders of Parliament.
The two legislators were elected during separate by-elections following the deaths of Ernest Kumi, the late MP for Akwatia, and Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the late MP for Tamale Central.
They took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of a Member of Parliament before the House, formally confirming their membership of the Ninth Parliament.
Speaker Bagbin subsequently presented each of them with a copy of the 1992 Constitution and the Standing Orders, which govern the conduct and procedures of the House.
Addressing the new members, the Speaker urged them to approach their new roles with humility and a willingness to learn, describing Parliament as a “new school” where all members, regardless of their professional or academic background, must adapt to its unique culture and discipline.
“Whether you are a Professor or what, you have come to a new school. Learn. Parliament is a new school for you,” he advised, drawing laughter and applause from members on both sides of the chamber.
Speaker Bagbin then welcomed the MPs on behalf of the House, noting that their swearing-in brought the total number of sitting members to 276.
“Honourable Members, on your behalf, I welcome the two members. We now have the full complement of the House. We are 276,” he announced.
Following the brief ceremony, the entire House stood to recite the National Pledge.
By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliament House