Do not politicise Bagbin’s medical trip to Dubai – Speaker’s Office
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Babgin’s trip to the United Arab Emirates for his routine medical check-up has been explained by the Speaker’s office as part of his conditions of service.
He embarked on the trip after the dramatic session in the legislative house where the 2022 budget presented by Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta was rejected.
Members of his entourage for his trip include his wife, aide, secretary and Head of Parliamentary Clinic, Dr. Prince Kofi Pambo.
“The current Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Hon Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, being mindful of the times in which the country finds itself, travelled with a comparatively skeletal staff, taking into consideration the economic situation in the country and bearing in mind, the need for frugal and prudent spending,” a release issued by his counsel, Magnus Kofi Amoatey, on Monday, November 29 said.
His office added that there are records to show that all his predecessors, particularly in the Fourth Republic, embarked on similar trips and even the entire leadership of the House are entitled to the same.
the Speaker’s Office is thus not pleased with the reports on the trip, particularly on the reason why he is accessing healthcare abroad rather than home.
“Indeed, the Speaker has on a number of occasions stated openly and continues to maintain his position to Members of Parliament to help safeguard the public purse and so has been mindful of same in all his dealings as Speaker.
“The Office of Speaker wishes to assure the general citizenry of its commitment to protect the public purse at all times.
“Parliament is also committed to seeking the best interest of the people they represent and will continue to always do so.”
It further explained that the Majority and Minority members may disagree on issues on the floor “but these are all based on procedures, which govern the work of the House and which are strictly adhered to without fear or favour”.
“The office will advise that the health issues of the speaker and that of other office bearers are not politicised as anybody could be taken ill at any time.”
The Speaker is expected back home on Tuesday, December 14, 2021.
By: Stella Annan | myactiveonline.com Twitter @activetvgh
