Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has called for the construction of a new Parliamentary chamber. The suggestion, made during the inauguration of the Parliamentary Service Board for the ninth Parliament on March 17, comes in response to increasing concerns about the safety of Members of Parliament (MPs) within the current parliamentary structure.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin, drawing comparisons to the British Parliament’s well-guarded chambers, highlighted the lack of sufficient security in Ghana’s public galleries, where MPs are vulnerable to potential attacks. “Indeed, when I visited the British Parliament, even within the chamber, there is enhanced security. Here in the public gallery, anybody at all can throw anything at an MP, and there is no security,” he said, stressing the urgent need for an upgraded security infrastructure.

The proposal is part of Afenyo-Markin’s broader call for a Parliamentary setup that truly reflects the importance of the legislative arm of government. “Mr Speaker, I am therefore looking forward to an enhanced security regime, and I am pleased to depart from this infrastructure. We can begin a conversation for a new chamber befitting the legislative arm of government,” he added.

However, the proposal has faced opposition from Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, who swiftly rejected the idea, citing the country’s ongoing financial crisis. Ayariga argued that, given the current economic challenges, building a new Parliamentary chamber is an impractical suggestion.

While the debate continues, Afenyo-Markin’s proposal underscores growing concerns about the safety of MPs, especially as the country grapples with economic hardships and security risks. Whether the government will prioritize such infrastructure improvements remains to be seen.

Source:TheDotNews