Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the MP for North Tongu has suggested to the government to ban medical trips abroad for public officials with immediate effect.
The lawmaker argues it will be hypocritical to single out the Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin and accuse him of embarking on medical trips abroad.
“Also, on medical trips abroad for public officials, particularly the political class — I pray for the day we can ban the practice for all including the President, Vice President, Speaker, Deputy Speakers, MPs, First and Second Ladies, Ministers, Presidential Staffers, Special Assistants, etc,” he posted on Facebook.
“Interestingly, I recall the NPP promised to ban the tradition of medical treatment abroad for public officials in its 2000 Manifesto (some 22 years ago) — it appears they abandoned the pledge when they won the 2000 elections.”
“I am all for the principle but it is most unfair to single out Speaker Bagbin and accuse some of us for being hypocritical especially when we haven’t criticized the many others for embarking on medical travels abroad,” he added.
Okudzeto has therefore called for a national dialogue on the state of Ghana’s health care delivery to help address the challenge.
“Surely, let’s be bold to have a frank and open discussion on the state of Ghana’s healthcare delivery, confidentiality of all patients regardless of status and how we can insist that those responsible for public health policies patronize what we create for the masses. That said, this must be a bigger, sincere, patriotic discourse — let’s not Bagbinize it.,” he said.
Fred Dzakpata
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