A Call for Priorities: A Response to Afenyo-Markin’s Proposals

The recent proposal by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Minority Leader in Parliament, to construct a new parliamentary chamber and a hospital exclusively for Members of Parliament (MPs) has sparked widespread debate. While Afenyo-Markin argues that these projects are necessary to address security concerns and ensure the well-being of lawmakers, the proposals have been met with significant criticism. Many Ghanaians view these ideas as misplaced priorities, especially in a country where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge for the majority of citizens.

International Comparisons: A Lesson in Prioritization

In many advanced jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom, Singapore, and Canada, there are no exclusive hospitals for lawmakers. Instead, these nations focus on building robust, nationwide healthcare systems that provide top-notch medical services to all citizens, including public officials. For instance:

• Singapore boasts a world-class healthcare system that is accessible to all residents, ensuring that even the highest-ranking officials use the same facilities as ordinary citizens.
• Canada operates under a universal healthcare model, where public officials receive care from the same hospitals and clinics as the general population.
• The United Kingdom provides healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS), which is renowned for its quality and inclusivity.

These examples demonstrate that when a nation invests in comprehensive healthcare infrastructure, there is no need for exclusive facilities for specific groups. Afenyo-Markin’s proposal for a hospital dedicated to MPs raises questions about equity and fairness, especially when Ghana’s healthcare system struggles to meet the needs of its citizens.

The State of Healthcare in Ghana
Ghana’s healthcare system faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient medical personnel, and limited access to essential medicines. Many hospitals, particularly in rural areas, lack basic equipment and resources, forcing patients to travel long distances for treatment. The situation is further exacerbated by the closure of key facilities, such as the La General Hospital, which served thousands of people before being demolished without timely reconstruction.

Instead of advocating for exclusive facilities for MPs, Afenyo-Markin should focus on addressing these systemic issues. Improving healthcare access and quality for all Ghanaians would not only benefit the general population but also ensure that lawmakers and public officials receive the care they need without resorting to special privileges.

The Role of Leadership: A Call for Advocacy

As a public servant, Afenyo-Markin has a responsibility to champion initiatives that prioritize the needs of the people. Advocating for the construction of a new parliamentary chamber or an MPs-only hospital sends the wrong message at a time when Ghana is grappling with economic challenges and significant public debt. Instead, he should use his platform to push for:

1. Rehabilitation of Existing Hospitals: Facilities like the La General Hospital should be rebuilt and equipped to serve their communities effectively.

2. Expansion of Healthcare Access: Investments should be made in rural healthcare infrastructure to ensure that all Ghanaians, regardless of location, have access to quality medical services.

3. Strengthening the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS): Enhancing the NHIS would reduce out-of-pocket expenses for citizens and improve overall healthcare delivery.

Unfounded Claims About Exclusive Facilities for Lawmakers

Recent claims made on a media platform that countries such as the USA, Canada, and other developed nations provide exclusive hospitals for their lawmakers are unfounded. The reality is that these nations rely on inclusive healthcare systems, where services are accessible to all citizens, regardless of status. Lawmakers in these jurisdictions utilize the same facilities as ordinary citizens, reinforcing the principle of equity in healthcare. Ghana should emulate this model by prioritizing nationwide healthcare improvements rather than exclusive privileges for a select group.

Conclusion: A Vision for Inclusive Development

Ghana’s leaders must prioritize projects that benefit the majority of citizens rather than a select few. Afenyo-Markin’s proposals for a new parliamentary chamber and MPs-only hospital highlight the need for a shift in focus toward inclusive development. By advocating for improved healthcare services nationwide, he can help build a legacy of equity and progress that serves all Ghanaians.

As the Akan proverb goes, “The family that eats together stays together.” In the same vein, a nation that invests in shared resources and collective well-being will thrive together. It is time for Ghana’s leaders to align their actions with the aspirations of the people they serve.

Retired Senior Citizen
Teshie-Nungua