Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin says contrary to media publications that he requested $50,000 from Parliament just a week after his trip to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for medical review where he had travelled with $120,000, no such request had been made.
According to a release issued by the Public Affairs Directorate of Parliament and signed by Director of Public Affairs, Kate Addo, on Friday, March 18, 2022 said the report carried by the Daily Guide was not accurate.
They categorically stated that “the Rt. Hon. has not, at any point in time, made direct cash requests from Parliament.
“The conditions of service of public employees, including political office holders, cover medical care, both local and foreign.”
According to the statement, Speaker Bagbin has not at any point even altered the areas of coverage for former and current parliamentarians and Speakers as recommended by the Presidential Commission on Emoluments.
“The current Speaker has no authority and has not made any attempt to, in anyway amend or alter what has been in existence before he came into office.
“Parliament is fully aware of the dire times we are in as a country and is mindful to avoid any profligate spending,” it stated, adding that the Eighth Parliament has sought to put the interest of the taxpayer at the fore of all its considerations and deliberations.
“This has manifestly exhibited in the way proceedings have been held since January 2021.”
By Vincent Kubi