Ala Adjetey becomes new Speaker
Accra (Greater Accra) 08 Jan. 2000
Mr Peter Ala Adjetey, 67,a renowned legal practitioner, Sunday became the new Speaker of the third parliament of the fourth republic and the eighth Speaker of Ghana's parliament.
Mr J H Mensah, majority leader, proposed him and was seconded by Mr Alban Bagbin, Minority Leader.
Mr Bagbin said the minority was seconding the nomination because of reconciliation and to ensure the growth of democracy.
He said as a practice in the House members should have been consulted, but he regretted it was "only this morning that he was informed about the nomination."
"This is not good enough", he said.
He said they knew "Mr Adjetey as a loyal disciple of the NPP and that it is doubtful whether he is well disposed to performing a neutral role." Mr Bagbin cautioned that Mr Adjetey's continued stay, as the Speaker would depend on his performance.
Mr Mensah had earlier apologised that the consultation was not done early enough because of pressures of the handing over to the new government machinery.
The Minority shouted Mr Mensah down when he got up to explain a point as he failed to catch the eye of the Clerk of Parliament, Mr Rex Owusu-Ansah.
Mr Justice I K Abban, Chief Justice swore the Speaker into office. Mr Ala Adjetey swore the oath of allegiance and the Speaker's oath of office promising to subscribe to the will of parliament.
He thanked the New Patriotic Party for nominating and reposing such confidence in him as a loyal member of the party.
The new speaker commended Justice Francis Annan, former speaker and members of the House for the strong foundation they laid for democracy to thrive.
Mr Freddie Worsemewu Blay, former second deputy Speaker was elected first deputy speaker, while Mr Kenneth Dzirasah, former first deputy speaker became second deputy Speaker. Members of Parliament took the oaths of parliament and allegiance administered by the new Speaker.
GRi…/