The Member of Parliament for Tamale South and Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has proposed that Parliament institute a “Backbenchers’ Day” to help new Members of Parliament (MPs) learn and master parliamentary proceedings and deepen their understanding of the 1992 Constitution.


Speaking during the second sitting of the third meeting of the first session of the ninth Parliament, Hon. Iddrisu emphasized that every Parliamentarian begins as a backbencher. Through continuous learning and experience, many have advanced to the front bench and assumed leadership roles.

“Parliamentary practice across the world is built on experience. It is my wish that every backbencher will have the opportunity to rise through the ranks—from the back, to the middle, to the front bench—and even to lead. But they can only lead if we give them an opportunity to learn,” he stated.


He therefore urged Parliament to dedicate a specific day for backbenchers—particularly first-time MPs—to engage in learning activities that will enhance their parliamentary competence and leadership potential.



Hon. Iddrisu further noted that in a nation governed by the rule of law, protecting the rights and freedoms of individuals remains a fundamental duty of Parliament. 


He cautioned that any infringement on citizens’ rights should concern the House, as it poses a serious threat to democracy.


The Tamale South MP also called for reforms to improve parliamentary practice, including the introduction of a “Minority Day” in the Standing Orders, to allow dissenting voices to be heard and enrich Ghana’s democratic discourse.



“I keep telling them to declare a Minority Day in the Standing Orders—a day solely reserved for the Minority—because the best way to strengthen democracy is to give space for the views of the other side,” he concluded.


Sompaonline.com/ Kesse Emmanuel Asiedu