The Office of the Speaker of Parliament has said that Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin‘s recent journey to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a normal medical check-up is part of his service requirements.
The trip was planned barely a day after he ruled in unusual circumstances to reject the 2022 budget statement and the government’s economic policies.
He traveled with two members of his staff, an assistant and a secretary, as well as his wife and the Head of the 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, traveled 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.
It went on to say that there exist documents proving that all of his predecessors, notably during the Fourth Republic, took such trips, and that the whole House leadership is entitled to the same.
As a result, his administration is dissatisfied with reporting about the trip, specifically the reason why he is seeking treatment overseas rather than at 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 went on to say that although Majority and Minority members may differ on topics on the floor, “all of these are based on procedures which govern the work of the House and are strictly adhered to without fear or favor.”
“The office will advise that the health issues of the speaker and that of other office bearers are not politicized as anybody could be taken ill at any time.”
The Speaker is scheduled to return home on Tuesday, December 14, 2021.
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SOURCE: 3NEWS
