Speaker of Parliament Alban S. K. Bagbin has called for a sober reflection on the life and legacies of Members of Parliament (MPs) who served the house with distinction.

He said the work of parliament can be very challenging, especially for new entrants and must, therefore, be appreciated when well-executed. 

The Speaker made the remarks when the family of the late Hon Gershon Kofi Bediako Gbediame called on him in parliament today.

The family of the late Nkwanta South legislator, led by a former Minister of the Volta Region, Mr Joseph Amenowode, called on the Speaker to officially announce the death and funeral arrangements of Mr Gbediame to the house. 

Mr Gbediame passed away while on admission at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in September this year. 

The Speaker paid glowing tribute to the late MP and described him as a humanist and vibrant teacher.

Through hard work, he said, Mr Gbediame became the majority chief whip of the 6th Parliament and was also instrumental in many initiatives and programmes of the Parliamentary Christian Fellowship (PCF).

Mr Begbin described Mr Gbediame as a selfless man whose life ought to be celebrated and not mourned.

He indicated to the family that he will, on Wednesday, 24 November 2022, provide an opportunity on the floor of the house for members to pay tribute to their late relative.

He further assured them of the readiness of parliament to support the family to give him a befitting funeral.

The leader of the delegation, a former MP for Hohoe South, expressed gratitude to the Speaker for the support given the family.

The late Gershon Gbediame will be laid to rest on Saturday, 27 November 2021 in his hometown Pusupu in the Oti Region.