The Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has urged lawmakers to prioritize accountability, bipartisan collaboration, and responsive governance as the 9th Parliament works to address pressing national challenges.
The Speaker said this on Monday, March 17 when he inaugurated the 9th Parliamentary Service Board.
During the ceremony, he underscored the Board’s pivotal role in strengthening institutional integrity and fostering a legislative environment anchored in public trust and democratic principles.
The Board, which Is chaired by the Rt Hon Speaker, has the following members:
Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror – Clerk to Parliament
Mahama Ayariga – MP for Bawku Central and Majority Leader
Alexander Afenyo-Markin – MP for Effutu and Minority Leader
Angela Oforiwa Alorwu-Tay – Former MP for Afadjato South
Dr. Mark Assibey-Yeboah – Former MP for New Juaben South
The first and second deputy speakers
Hon. Bernard Ahiafor-MP for Akatsi South and Hon. Andrew Asiamah -MP for Fomena and 2nd Deputy Speaker are co-opted members.
The Speaker expressed concerns about insecurity within Parliament, Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin proposed that the Board consider constructing a new parliamentary chamber to address both security and space challenges faced by MPs.
This was after a minor disagreement ensued between the Majority and Minority Leaders, Mahama Ayariga and Alexander Afenyo-Markin, over infrastructure priorities for Parliament.
READ ALSO: 9th Parliamentary Service Board inaugurated: Full list of members
“There are real concerns about MPs’ security. In the current public gallery, anyone could throw something at an MP. It’s time we have a conversation about a new chamber that befits Parliament and addresses security,” Afenyo-Markin suggested.
He also called for the establishment of a dedicated hospital for Parliament, arguing that MPs’ welfare should be prioritized as part of enhancing the institution’s capacity.
But Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga strongly disagreed with both proposals, stating that constructing a new chamber and a parliamentary hospital should not be Parliament’s priority at this time.
“I disagree that we should construct a new chamber for Parliament,” Ayariga said bluntly.
“I also don’t believe a hospital should be a priority for Parliament. Ridge Hospital and Korle Bu are adequate and available.”
