Bagbin: Local Languages to Be Used in Parliament Soon
A move to promote inclusivity, cultural identity, and citizen engagement in Ghana's democratic process
- Local languages to be introduced in parliamentary debates soon
- MPs can speak in their mother tongues with English translation
- Language experts to be hired as official interpreters
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has revealed plans to introduce the use of local languages in parliamentary debates—a move aimed at strengthening Ghana’s cultural identity and promoting inclusive governance.
Speaking at the launch of the Open Parliament Action Plan, Bagbin underscored the importance of embracing indigenous languages in national conversations. He emphasized that no country can fully develop using a foreign language, and it’s time for Ghana’s diverse linguistic heritage to take center stage in its legislature.
“It is already embedded in our Standing Orders that MPs may speak their mother tongue, provided they offer a translation into English,” Bagbin stated. “We’ll soon bring in language experts to support this effort and serve as translators on the parliamentary floor.”
This is a continuation of an earlier call he made on February 16, 2024, citing Standing Order 63, which permits MPs to use any local language as long as it is interpreted for all members.
The initiative is seen as a step toward deeper citizen participation, cultural preservation, and a more relatable and inclusive parliamentary process.
