Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin is the Speaker of Parliament
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called for the introduction of official annual leave for Members of Parliament (MPs), arguing that the demanding nature of their work leaves them with little time to rest or spend with their families.
Addressing the House on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Bagbin said MPs continue to perform their duties either in their constituencies or at the committee level even when Parliament is on recess, contrary to public perception that they go on holidays.
“MPs don’t go on holidays or vacation. They recede to continue to do the work of MPs,” he stated.
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The Speaker emphasised that the Labour Act makes provision for annual leave for workers and suggested that Ghana’s legislators should also benefit from a similar arrangement.
“It is something we have to consider because the Labour Act expects that you should also have some leave. It is done all over the world,” he indicated.
Bagbin lamented the toll parliamentary duties have taken on the personal lives of MPs, noting that many have struggled to balance their professional responsibilities with family life.
“Those of us who have sacrificed all these years, we know how our families have been destroyed because you never have time for your family, you never have time for people dear to your heart,” he said.
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He urged parliamentarians to begin discussions on the proposal with relevant stakeholders to make official leave days for MPs a reality.
“Please, let’s think over it, discuss with our neighbours outside Parliament. At least, we must get a few days to have some breathing space if not to rest, then to share love with your immediate family members,” he appealed.
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