A Member of Parliament has sparked debate by linking the growing problem of absenteeism among lawmakers to malfunctioning air conditioners in the Job 600 office complex, prompting a sharp rebuttal from the Majority Leader.
Mumuni Nurideen Muhammed, the MP for Nalerigu/Gambaga, raised the issue on the floor of Parliament on Friday, urging the Leader of Government Business to take immediate action. He argued that the lack of a comfortable working environment is deterring MPs from attending sessions.
“For some time now, members of this House have put up complaints to the Majority Leader and the Leader of Government Business about the office air conditioners, and up till now, we have not seen any action,” Mr. Muhammed stated. “Some of these air conditioners not working have contributed to the members not coming to Parliament because if you come to Parliament and you do not have anywhere to sit in the Chamber, it makes it difficult for some of these Members of Parliament.”
He pleaded for urgent repairs, emphasizing that a conducive workspace is essential for lawmakers to perform their duties effectively.
However, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga swiftly dismissed the justification. “I agree with you that we need to urgently fix the air conditioners, but your challenges with the air conditioners cannot be grounds for not showing up,” Mr. Ayariga retorted. “If you give that indication to the public, you are essentially telling civil servants that when the air conditioner in their offices is not working, they should also not go to work.”
The exchange comes amid mounting public scrutiny following a parliamentary attendance report covering 43 sittings between January and March 2025. The report highlighted several MPs who absented themselves for extended periods without official permission.
Notable absences included:
Joseph Frempong (Nkawkaw) – 22 days
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson (Ajumako/Enyan/Essiam) – 17 days
Blay Nyameke Armah (Sekondi) – 16 days
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (North Tongu) – 14 days
Dr. Nana Ayew Afriyie (Effiduase/Asokore) – 14 days
The Job 600 complex serves as the primary office space for Ghanaian MPs, and complaints about its facilities have persisted despite previous calls for upgrades.
As public concern over parliamentary accountability intensifies, the debate underscores the balance between infrastructure challenges and the expectation of unwavering legislative attendance.
