The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called for the introduction of formal annual leave for Members of Parliament, arguing that the unrelenting demands of legislative duties are taking a toll on lawmakers’ personal lives.

Speaking during a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Mr. Bagbin emphasized that while Parliament’s recess periods are often misconstrued as downtime, MPs continue to engage in extensive constituency work, leaving little room for genuine rest or family engagement.

“MPs don’t go on holidays or vacation. They recede to continue to do the work of MP,” Mr. Bagbin told the chamber. “I think it is something that we have to consider because the Labour Act expects that you should also have some leave. It is done all over the world.”

Citing his own decades-long experience in the legislature, the Speaker warned of the long-term personal costs of public service. “Those of us who have sacrificed all these years, we know how our families have been destroyed because you never have time for your family,” he said. “You never have time for people dear to your heart — the people that you grew up with — and sometimes they don’t spare you.”

Mr. Bagbin urged lawmakers to initiate discussions within Parliament and with external stakeholders to examine the feasibility of a formalized leave structure. “Please, let’s think over it,” he said. “At least get a few days to have some breathing space — if not to rest, but to share love with your immediate family members.”

While the proposal remains at the discussion stage, it reflects broader concerns in Ghana and elsewhere about the sustainability of public service roles and the work-life balance of elected officials.

Source:TheDotNews