Gov’t will consider a new chamber for Parliament – Bawumia

Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has said government will look at the possibility of constructing a new Chamber for the Legislature.

According to him, considering the critical role that Parliament plays in the governance of this country, there shouldn’t be a situation where its activities are interrupted.

Veep Mahamadu Bawumia was speaking when he visited Parliament House on Wednesday to assess the extent of damage to the building following Tuesday evening’s heavy rain.

The storm that accompanied the downpour, left the roof of the chamber of Parliament House ripped off.

The downpour which lasted less than an hour saw rain dripping into the chamber forcing the Minority side to walk out of the building.

Plastic containers had to be placed at the leaking parts to contain the water and prevent the carpet on the floor being soaked.

Other offices were also equally affected as they were inundated with water.

The severity of the incident attracted the Minister for National Security, Hon. Albert Kan Dapaah and officials of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) going to Parliament House to access the situation.

Dr Bawumia promised to brief President Akufo Addo about the unfortunate incident on his return from the AU Summit, so that a lasting solution could be provided.

“I’m sure we’ll look at the issue of another chamber very seriously. It is very important that the work of Parliament continues and it’s very nice that the deputy Majority leader is here, the Minority Leader is here…we are all together, we’re one Ghana, one people trying to do the people's business.”

He apologized for springing a surprise on them as his visit was unannounced.

Speaker, Rt. Hon. Prof. Aaron Michael Oquaye who had earlier welcomed Dr Bawumia briefed him about last night’s incident and noted that the damage caused the House by the torrential rains is evident that they need a new chamber.

He said as an interim measure, the House will temporarily, be roofed with some plastic roofing sheets to enable members conduct government business.

“As you can see members from both sides, thus, Majority and Minority are ready to work. We will count on your support,” Speaker noted.