Member of Parliament (MP) for Afigya Kwabre North in the Ashanti Region, Collins Adomako-Mensah, has raised concerns over the current sitting hours of Parliament, describing them as unhelpful and potentially harmful to lawmakers’ health.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Burning Issues, the former Deputy Energy Minister called for a reconsideration of the sitting schedule, following the sudden death of Akwatia MP Ernest Yaw Kumi.
According to him, MPs who double as party communicators face intense pressure, as they are often required to wake up early for media interviews and continue with official duties throughout the day.
“In addition to weekday pressure and sleepless nights, MPs are expected to visit their constituencies on weekends. The schedule is simply relentless and poses serious health risks,” he explained.
“This is not the first time a Member of Parliament has lost their life, and each time it happens, we raise the issue of the stress MPs go through. But soon after, we stop talking about it,” he lamented.
Adomako-Mensah urged his colleagues to reflect on recent developments and prioritise their health, stressing the need for a healthier balance between parliamentary duties and personal well-being.
Meanwhile, MP for Bia East and First Deputy Majority Whip, Richard Acheampong, offered some context on the current 2:00 p.m. sitting schedule, noting that it was introduced to make room for committee meetings.
He explained that Parliament had struggled to form a quorum during morning sittings, prompting leadership to adjust the time.
“No matter how well you try to manage your time, there will be some form of stress. Parliament is a master of its own rules, and if we think the 2:00 p.m. sitting is not helping, it can be changed,” he added.
Source: Kwame Kulenu
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