Former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Alhaji Inusah Fuseini, has voiced strong opposition to a recent proposal calling for the construction of a new parliamentary chamber and a dedicated hospital for Members of Parliament (MPs). Describing the initiative as a "misplaced priority," Fuseini argued that Ghana’s current economic challenges make such expenditures untenable. His remarks come in response to a suggestion made by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who emphasized the need for enhanced security and healthcare for MPs.
The proposal was presented during the inauguration of the Parliamentary Service Board for the ninth Parliament on Monday, March 17, 2025. Afenyo-Markin highlighted the importance of modern infrastructure to reflect the significance of the legislative arm of government. However, Fuseini, speaking on Citi FM’s *Eyewitness News*, dismissed the idea, stating that the country’s financial situation renders such projects impractical.
“The call for a new chamber at this crucial time in our economy is very misplaced,” Fuseini asserted. “Even in 2019, when the country was not bankrupt, civil societies rejected the idea, arguing that it was not the time for a new chamber but rather a time to save the country from economic downturns. To make such a statement now, when the country is bankrupt and under IMF support and programs, is shocking. I don’t think such a proposal should have come from the Minority Leader at all.”
Fuseini further argued that the existing security measures in Parliament are sufficient. He noted that significant improvements have been made over the years, including the installation of scanners at both gates of Parliament to screen individuals entering the premises. “A new chamber does not protect MPs in any way,” he said. “Since the day I entered Parliament until today, there has been a massive improvement in security. Scanners have been installed at both gates of Parliament to prevent people from entering without being scanned. It wasn’t like that before, so clearly, there have been improvements.”
The former MP suggested that such projects should only be considered in the future when Ghana’s economy stabilizes. “Maybe in the future, when our financial situation improves, and we can balance our budget, make savings, and the country is prosperous, then we can consider spending money on such things,” he said.
Fuseini’s comments have sparked a broader debate about the allocation of resources in a country grappling with economic challenges. Ghana is currently under an International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, which has imposed strict fiscal discipline to stabilize the economy. Critics argue that prioritizing luxury projects like a new parliamentary chamber and a dedicated hospital for MPs is tone-deaf to the struggles of ordinary Ghanaians.
The proposal for a new parliamentary chamber is not new. In 2019, a similar plan was met with widespread criticism from civil society organizations and the public. At the time, critics argued that the estimated $200 million cost of the project could be better spent on addressing pressing national issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. The backlash forced the government to shelve the idea.
Afenyo-Markin’s recent proposal has reignited the debate, with many questioning the timing and necessity of such projects. While the Minority Leader emphasized the need for improved security and healthcare for MPs, opponents argue that these concerns can be addressed within existing frameworks without incurring significant additional costs.
For instance, the current parliamentary chamber, though aging, remains functional. Security enhancements, such as the installation of advanced screening systems, have already been implemented. Similarly, MPs have access to healthcare services through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and other existing facilities. Critics argue that creating a separate hospital for MPs would be an unnecessary duplication of resources.
The debate also touches on broader issues of governance and accountability. Many Ghanaians feel that their leaders are out of touch with the realities of everyday life. With unemployment rates high and inflation eroding purchasing power, calls for luxury projects for MPs are seen as insensitive. Social media platforms have been abuzz with criticism, with many users expressing frustration over what they perceive as a lack of prioritization.
In response to the backlash, some MPs have defended the proposal, arguing that improved infrastructure and healthcare are essential for effective governance. They contend that a modern parliamentary chamber would enhance the efficiency of legislative proceedings, while a dedicated hospital would ensure that MPs remain healthy and able to perform their duties. However, these arguments have done little to sway public opinion.
The controversy highlights the challenges of balancing the needs of governance with the realities of a struggling economy. While it is important to provide MPs with the tools and resources they need to perform their duties effectively, it is equally important to ensure that such expenditures are justified and aligned with national priorities.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the proposal will gain traction or be shelved once again. For now, Fuseini’s criticism has struck a chord with many Ghanaians, who are calling for greater fiscal responsibility and a focus on addressing the country’s most pressing challenges.
In conclusion, the call for a new parliamentary chamber and a dedicated hospital for MPs has sparked a heated debate about priorities in a time of economic hardship. While proponents argue that these projects are necessary for effective governance, critics like Inusah Fuseini contend that they are misplaced and out of touch with the realities of ordinary Ghanaians. As the country navigates its economic challenges, the question of how to allocate limited resources will remain a contentious issue.
Source: Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana
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