The debate over the infrastructural needs of Ghana’s Parliament took centre stage at the inauguration of the Parliamentary Service Board as the Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, proposed the construction of a new parliamentary chamber and a dedicated hospital for lawmakers.
However, his suggestion was firmly rejected by Majority Leader Hon. Mahama Ayariga, who argued that such expenditures were not a priority given Ghana’s current economic situation.
The Bawku Central Member of Parliament insisted that Parliament’s proximity to the Ridge Hospital and other medical facilities makes the establishment of a separate hospital for MPs unnecessary.
“I don’t believe that a hospital is a priority of this Parliament or should be the priority of this Parliament. I don’t believe that at this stage, in the finances of this country, we should have a political class building a hospital, especially for itself and not wanting to mingle with ordinary Ghanaians and the facilities that they use”.
Hon. Mahama Ayariga, Majority Leader
According to him, Parliament already has a clinic that provides basic healthcare services, and any improvement should be focused on upgrading the existing facility rather than constructing an entirely new hospital.
Similarly, Mahama Ayariga rejected the call for a new parliamentary chamber, describing it as an unnecessary venture at a time when Ghana faces financial constraints.
“The calls for a new chamber—I don’t think that the security issues warrant a discussion about constructing a new chamber and that I totally reject as well. At this stage, when this country is confronted with multiple financial challenges, I totally disagree with my colleague, the Minority Leader, that we should be discussing the construction of a new chamber for Parliament”.
Hon. Mahama Ayariga, Majority Leader
He emphasized that the current parliamentary chamber has served Ghana well over the years and remains fit for purpose, adding that Parliament should focus on maximizing the use of existing infrastructure rather than embarking on new construction projects.
Minority Leader’s Proposal
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, in his address at the event, emphasized the necessity of upgrading Parliament’s security and healthcare facilities.
He underscored the importance of having a medical facility dedicated to legislators, citing concerns about confidentiality and the costs involved when MPs seek medical attention abroad.
“Mister Speaker, there are two things that I look forward to seeing happen in the ninth Parliament. One is a hospital for Parliament. If it does happen, in accordance with your vision, it will be a great master.
“We are a political class and our health issues are to be known within certain confines. Because of confidentiality and all, people travel abroad at great cost for medical support. I believe if we can deal with this, it will help,”.
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader
He further pointed out the security vulnerabilities within the parliamentary chamber, drawing comparisons with the British Parliament.
He stressed the need to enhance security in the chamber and urged the Speaker to initiate discussions on constructing a new chamber that befits the legislative arm of government.
“Mister Speaker, you’ve also talked about security. Indeed, when I visited the House of Commons, even within the chamber, there was enhanced security. Here in the public gallery, anybody at all can throw anything at a Member of Parliament, and there is no security.
“Mister Speaker, I am therefore looking forward to enhancing security in the chamber and at least departing from this old infrastructure. Though it’s fit for purpose, we can begin a conversation for a new chamber, befitting the legislative arm of government”.
Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader
The debate over constructing a new parliamentary chamber is not new in Ghanaian politics. In 2019, there was significant public backlash when a similar proposal was made, leading to its eventual abandonment.
Many Ghanaians have expressed concerns that such projects divert resources from critical areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
Given Ghana’s current economic challenges, Mahama Ayariga’s position is likely to resonate with many citizens who believe that public funds should be channelled into pressing national needs rather than facilities exclusively for politicians.
However, Afenyo-Markin’s arguments regarding security and confidentiality in medical care highlight concerns that some lawmakers believe must be addressed.
The sharp disagreement between the Minority and Majority Leaders reflects broader debates on governance priorities in Ghana.
While Afenyo-Markin argues that a hospital and a new chamber would enhance the efficiency and security of Parliament, Mahama Ayariga countered that such expenditures are misplaced, especially given the country’s economic difficulties.
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