Former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Alhaji Inusah Fuseini, has raised concerns over the proposal to construct a new parliamentary chamber and establish a dedicated hospital for Members of Parliament (MPs).
He described the initiative as untimely, arguing that Ghana’s current economic challenges make such an expenditure unjustifiable.
His comments come in response to a proposal by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who advocated for improved security measures and better healthcare facilities for MPs.
The Effutu MP made the suggestion during the inauguration of the Parliamentary Service Board for the ninth Parliament on Monday, March 17, emphasizing the need for modern infrastructure that reflects the importance of the legislative body.
Speaking on Citi FM, Fuseini criticized the timing of the proposal, recalling that a similar suggestion in 2019 was widely opposed even when the economy was in a relatively better state.
“The call for a new chamber at this crucial time in our economy is very misplaced. Even in 2019, when the country was not bankrupt, civil societies rejected the idea, arguing that it was not the time for a new chamber but rather a time to save the country from economic downturns.
“So to make that statement now, when the country is bankrupt and under IMF support and programs, is shocking. I don’t think such a proposal should have come from the Minority Leader at all.
“A new chamber does not protect MPs in any way. Since the day I entered Parliament until today, there has been a massive improvement in security. Scanners have been installed at both gates of Parliament to prevent people from entering without being scanned.
“It wasn’t like that before, so clearly, there have been improvements. Maybe in the future, when our financial situation improves, and we can balance our budget, make savings, and the country is prosperous, then we can consider spending money on such things,” he stated.