We’ll consider public interest before deciding on new chamber – Parliament

The Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Majority Leader, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu has indicated that the interest of the public will be considered in the final determination on the planned construction of a new Chamber complex for the legislature.

He said the plan for the construction has not been firmed up yet and it will be put before the plenary once that has been done.

The Suame MP made the comment at a press conference held on Thursday to provide more information about plans to construct the new multipurpose facility.

Many Ghanaians are up in arms following news of the plan to construct a new 45-seater capacity Chamber complex which has been estimated to cost about $200 million.

But the Majority Leader has given assurances that Parliament will not ignore the public concerns.

“The process is not concluded and the financials have not been concluded, procurement has not been concluded. The agreement has not been firmed up because these ones have not been completed. If the agreement is firmed up, it must come to Parliament for approval,” he said.

He added that “ultimately, whatever decision that Parliament can take on this, would have to factor into that decision, the sensibilities of the good people of this country.”

While describing as “unfortunate” last Thursday’s brief event to show a 3D design of the proposed infrastructure to the leadership of the House, he said Parliament owes it a duty to Ghanaians to provide clarification on the plan and explain why the proposal was made.

Many Ghanaians on social media have expressed anger over the announcement while some groups have planned protests.

One of the organisers, Rasheeda Adams, has said that there will be protests if Parliament does not rescind the decision.

Some MPs from both sides of the House have also publicly voiced opposition to the project.

The construction of a new parliamentary chamber complex is expected to begin before the end of 2019.

Renowned architect, David Frank Adjaye, designed the model and he told the media that the project will be completed in three years if it begins before the end of the year.

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