Speaker Bagbin calls for annual leave policy for lawmakers to ease workload pressure
Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has called for Members of Parliament (MPs) to be granted official leave periods, stressing that the heavy workload of lawmakers often takes a toll on their personal and family lives.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, October 21, Mr. Bagbin noted that despite public perception, MPs do not get real breaks during recess. Instead, they spend that time performing official duties in their constituencies.
“MPs do not go on vacation. When Parliament go on recess, they continue to work in their constituencies,” he said. “This is something we must review because the Labour Act provides for rest periods. Many countries already do this.”
The Speaker voiced concern over how the nonstop nature of parliamentary duties affects legislators’ relationships and overall well-being.
“Many of us have seen our families suffer because we barely have time for them or for those close to us,” he said. “The sacrifices we make for this work often come at a personal cost.”
Mr. Bagbin urged lawmakers to begin internal and external discussions on how to create a formal leave system for MPs.
“Let us reflect on this and engage people outside Parliament to see how we can make space for rest not only to recover but also to spend quality time with our families,” he added.
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