Speaker unveils GH₵69 million office complex to strengthen parliamentary efficiency and service delivery

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has inaugurated a GH₵69 million supplementary office complex, designed to transform the institution into a resilient and dynamic parliamentary administration.

At the inauguration of the new five-storey building at Parliament House in Accra, Mr. Bagbin emphasized that the complex is tailored to meet the evolving needs of the organization, featuring flexible workspaces and state-of-the-art technology. He highlighted that this Office Complex will house the Parliamentary Training Institute along with various specialist departments.

Mr. Bagbin urged Parliament staff to take ownership of the facility, emphasizing the importance of treating it not merely as a state asset but as a shared resource. “It is my hope that this building will remain fit and functional for the benefit of both present and future generations,” he stated.

In discussing the importance of Parliament, Mr. Bagbin remarked that the strength of any democracy is reflected in its parliamentary system. He underscored that for citizens to benefit from democratic governance, Parliament must be robust, as it plays a crucial role in both law-making and oversight.

He reiterated that Parliament embodies the principles of representation, accountability, and governance, acting as the voice of the people while holding the government accountable.

“The responsibility of strengthening Parliament does not rest solely with its members; it is a collective duty. We must collaborate to ensure our citizens do not suffer and struggle in vain when they elect us,” he said.

Mr. Bagbin called on stakeholders and Ghanaians to uphold and respect Parliament’s role in shaping the nation’s democratic framework, urging support for strengthening all parliamentary departments.

Notably, the Office Complex also includes ancillary facilities such as commercial stores, aimed at fostering an ecosystem that enhances productivity by minimizing the time and effort required to procure essential items for the smooth operation of various offices, including those of Members of Parliament.

Clerk to Parliament Cyril Nsiah praised the ongoing support from successive parliamentary service boards and the contractors, Messrs. China State Haulong Construction Limited, for their commitment to completing the project ahead of schedule.

He added that the multipurpose building will provide essential training and learning facilities, office accommodations for specialist officers, and additional office space for various departments.

Ing. Michael Krakue, Executive Chairman of ADK Consortium, the project consultant, urged Parliament and stakeholders to implement a rigorous maintenance regime to preserve the facilities for both current and future use.

The project scope includes the construction of a five-storey office block to house the Parliamentary Training Institute and provide vital ancillary services, as well as a two-storey office block for the Development Department of Parliament. Improvements also include the rehabilitation of the Eastern Perimeter Fence Wall to enhance security and the extension and refurbishment of the existing Fire Service Block to bolster its operational effectiveness.

The new five-storey Parliamentary Training Institute building will offer convenient banking services from commercial banks on the ground floor, along with convenience shops on the first floor, ensuring a comprehensive service offering for Parliament’s needs.