It looks almost certain Mrs Joyce Bamford Addo would not be retained as Speaker of Parliament under the new John Mahama-led government in 2013. The retired Supreme Court Judge, was the first lady Speaker of the House and was appointed in 2009 under the Mills-led administration. The leadership of the House is tight-lipped on the possible replacement but Joy News has gleaned information it could be one of the following three; Member of Parliament for Avenor Ave, Edward Doe Adjaho, former NDC Chairman, Obed Asamoah, and Chairman of the Refugees Board Ken Dzirasah. Deputy Majority Leader, Abdul Rashid Pelpuo told Joy News’ Parliamentary correspondent Elton John Brobbey he cannot confirm or deny a possible replacement of the current Speaker. He was quick to add, however, that Mrs Joyce Bamford Addo acquitted herself so well and wrote a good testimonial about how women can be responsible and effective in positions of trust. Speaking on the criteria for the selection of a Speaker, Rashid Pelpuo said the Speaker must be levelheaded, objective and must show a certain level of neutrality. He added the Speaker must not be seen to be wearing a party colour and must be seen by all as an objective umpire. Papa Owusu Ankomah who is the Member of Parliament for Sekondi and a member of the Minority said the Speaker must not be seen to be stifling debates on the floor. The Sekondi MP insisted the Speaker must see him or herself as an embodiment of the House and must be well vexed in Parliamentary procedures. The House is currently in session and will rise on Friday. It will reconvene on January 3, 2013 and will officially be dissolved on January 6, 2013. The new members of the House will be sworn into office on January 7, 2013.