Joyce Bawah defends Mahama’s Bagbin endorsement amid backlash

The election of Alban Bagbin as Speaker of Parliament has reignited debates on political transparency in Ghana. \

Speaking on JoyNews’ *Newsfile*, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide to President John Mahama, defended the President’s endorsement of Bagbin, citing it as a pragmatic move to prevent chaos in the politically sensitive hung Parliament.

Mogtari linked the decision to the disorder during the inauguration of the 8th Parliament, asserting it was necessary to ensure a smooth process. However, Rabi Salifu, NPP Deputy Communications Director, criticized the endorsement as undermining parliamentary independence.

She argued that Ghana's reputation for peaceful elections negated the need for such intervention, emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency and autonomy in Parliament's operations.

The debate underscores differing views on balancing political stability and institutional independence.