Parliamentary monitoring group PN-Africa has opposed discussions around the construction of a new parliamentary chamber.
According to them, it is an unjustified expense, especially after the recent €2.26 million refurbishment of the existing facility.
The group argues that Parliament has already invested significantly in upgrading electronic systems and other facilities, making the current chamber fit for purpose.
“We understand why Ghanaians initially rejected the idea of a new chamber. Parliament has already spent money on renovations to enhance functionality. It would be wasteful to now push for a new facility when there are more pressing national priorities.
“I think it’s a completely misplaced call around this time, Parliament has other priorities. Ghana has other priorities, which we need to be focusing on,” a representative of PN-Africa stated.
They further questioned the logic behind such a proposal, highlighting the substantial investments already made in the Job 600 building, administrative blocks, and other parliamentary infrastructure.
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PN-Africa’s comment comes after the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, suggested the need for a healthcare facility and a new parliamentary chamber for Parliament during the swearing-in of the Parliamentary Service Board on March 17.
However, his remarks were met with opposition from Bawku Central MP and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, who argued that Ghana’s economic struggles made such a project unjustifiable.
The proposal has also sparked public outcry, with many criticising it as a misplaced priority given the country’s current economic challenges.
PN-Africa insists that lawmakers should focus on critical national issues rather than spending resources on unnecessary infrastructure projects.
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