Parliament Reduces Sitting Hours to Safeguard MPs' Health and Wellbeing

Strategic Insights -

The Majority Leader, Mr. Mahama Ayariga, has defended the Business Committee's decision to limit the time allocated for asking questions and reading statements in Parliament. The decision aims to reduce the burden and stress on Members of Parliament (MPs) who often sit for long hours, leading to serious health implications. According to Mr. Ayariga, the proposal to allocate one hour for asking and answering questions, one hour for reading statements, and three hours for government business per day, will help safeguard the health and wellbeing of MPs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Business Committee has proposed limiting the time allocated for asking questions and reading statements to reduce the burden and stress on MPs.
  • The proposal includes allocating one hour for asking and answering questions, one hour for reading statements, and three hours for government business per day.
  • The Majority Leader, Mr. Mahama Ayariga, has defended the decision, citing the health and wellbeing of MPs as the main concern.
  • The Standing Orders 77(2), 94, and 216 will guide the new time allocations.
  • Professor Kingsley Nyarko, Member for Kwadaso, expressed reservations about the recommendations in the Business Statement but agreed with the need for transparency and accountability.

Statistics:

  • Average sitting hours per day for MPs: 5 hours (1 hour asking and answering questions, 1 hour reading statements, and 3 hours for government business)
  • Number of statements to be read per day: 3
  • Time of day when MPs are most likely to receive text messages begging for relief: 10 pm and 11 pm
  • Health implications of long sitting hours for MPs: serious health concerns, including stress and potential loss of colleagues

Sources:

  • Ghana News Agency (July 18, 2025)
  • Parliament of Ghana - Standing Order 77(2)
  • Parliament of Ghana - Standing Order 94
  • Parliament of Ghana - Standing Order 216