The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has expressed his gratitude to the Almighty God for his appointment as the Speaker of the 8th Parliament.

"One of such blessings found expression in the events of the early hours of January 7, 2021, that is, my election as the Speaker of the 8th Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana," he noted.

His victory came after a chaotic, closely contested secret ballot in the Chamber of Parliament on January 7 against former Speaker, Prof Aaron Mike Oquaye.

Mr Bagbin polled 138 votes making him the first Speaker of Parliament who was not selected by the governing party.

According to him, he is humbled to be part of Ghana's leadership during the crucial times of the country’s history.

The Speaker was speaking during a thanksgiving Mass held in his honour at the Christ the King Catholic Church, Accra Monday morning.

Alban Bagbin in his speech revealed that he feels a huge challenge on his shoulders as Speaker of the House, hence called on all and sundry to pray and support him in this journey. 

He said he considers himself as ''a mere vessel in the creative hands of God to do good according to his guidance and direction."

The Speaker who until his election was Ghana's longest-serving Member of Parliament was hopeful that the good Lord who begun a good thing in him, will surely accomplish it.

The thanksgiving service was attended by the spouse of the Alban Bagbin, First and Second Deputy Speakers, Joseph Osei-Owusu and Andrew Amoako Asiamah, Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu, old and current Members of Parliament, Clerk to Parliament and Staff of Parliament.

Others include running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama for the 2020 election,  Prof Jane Nana Opoku Agyeman,  National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), party members, family members of the Speaker and well wishers.

The thanksgiving service was presided over by Rev Fr Andrew Campbell.