Divided House: Majority and Minority leaders clash over new chamber and hospital for Parliament
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Debate over whether Ghana’s Parliament should construct a new chamber and an exclusive hospital has sparked intense disagreement between the Majority and Minority Leaders on the 9th Parliamentary Service Board. The discussions have revealed contrasting priorities between the two political factions as they consider critical infrastructure and welfare issues for MPs.
Tensions Rise Over Parliamentary Priorities
At the center of the debate are Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, both key members of the 9th Parliamentary Service Board. The two leaders have taken opposing stances on whether Parliament should invest in a dedicated hospital and a more secure chamber for MPs.
During a parliamentary session, Mahama Ayariga, Majority Leader dismissed proposals to build a hospital exclusively for MPs, arguing that Parliament already has access to well-equipped health facilities such as Ridge Hospital and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
“I don’t believe a hospital should be the priority of this Parliament,” Ayariga firmly stated, rejecting Afenyo-Markin’s proposal.
He emphasized that resources should be allocated to more pressing national issues, rather than constructing a hospital solely for MPs.
Minority Leader Pushes for New Chamber and Hospital
On the other hand, Afenyo-Markin strongly advocated for both a new parliamentary chamber and a dedicated hospital, citing security threats and welfare concerns.
“Here in the public gallery, anybody at all can throw something at an MP,” he warned, highlighting security risks faced by parliamentarians in the current chamber.
The Minority Leader insisted that Parliament should start discussions on building a modern chamber that ensures the safety and dignity of MPs.
“We can begin the conversation for a new chamber befitting Parliament. MPs have many concerns about their welfare, and we must take necessary steps to address them,” he added.
Speaker of Parliament Weighs In
Speaker Alban Bagbin, who chairs the Parliamentary Service Board, acknowledged the security concerns raised by Afenyo-Markin. He stressed that securing the Parliamentary enclave must be a top priority.
“We are insecure here; we are not safe. One of the responsibilities of the Board is to secure the Parliamentary enclave,” Bagbin emphasized.
Additionally, he urged both MPs and parliamentary staff to uphold integrity, dedication, and patriotism in their roles, ensuring that Parliament remains productive and focused on national development.
What’s Next?
With the sharp divide between the Majority and Minority leadership, it remains unclear whether the government will prioritize a new chamber or dedicated hospital for MPs. However, the debate underscores the ongoing struggle to balance infrastructure needs with national priorities.
