Parliament sets up Scrutiny Office; MPs asked to review their engagement with public

The Speaker of Parliament is alarmed at what he calls the uncomplimentary public comments made about Members of Parliament and the legislature.

Rt. Hon. Edward Doe Adjaho has however issued a strong warning to MPs to review their public interactions as the first step to revive the image of parliament.

He made this known when parliament reconvened this morning after a break.

There have been several allegations bothering on misconducts of MPs. Recently a former Rector of GIMPA, Prof. Stephen Adei claimed MPs take bribes and solicit same for their girlfriends.

In an explosive commentary about two weeks ago, Professor Stephen Adei claimed:

“Now if you want to parliament to pass anything else, not only do you go to the committee and bribe them….but after they have gotten their share, they ask you where is our laptop in other words you have not made provision for their girlfriends”

Joy News’ parliamentary correspondent Elton John Brobbey said though the Speaker did not mention specific allegations reported by the media, he said the House is ready to investigate any allegation once a member reports it.

He is hopeful the image of the august House would be protected if members carefully consider their engagement with the media.

Going forward, Mr. Adjaho announced the establishment of a Scrutiny Office, an independent body that will assist Parliament in the performance of its duties and protect its image.

He also mentioned that the Standing Orders of the House has undergone review and ready to be laid before the floor of Parliament for MPs to take a decision it.

In a related development, MPs are expected to finally move into the Job 600 office complex Tuesday. The building has been under construction since 1965.

Joy News has learnt that some Members of Parliament will be receiving keys to their offices Tuesday.

Acting Head Public Affairs of Parliament, Kate Addo told Joy News the House has received confirmation from the consultant working on the facility that the building complex is ready for use.

Each of the 270 legislators would be entitled to one office but two MPs would have to share one secretary and a research assistant.

The House is however in communication with the National Service Secretariat to provide it with more personnel so that each MP will have a personal research assistant.

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