The Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus, recently stated that his firsthand experience in Parliament has changed his perspective on the need for MPs to use sirens to beat traffic.
During an interview on Joy FM, A Plus explained how his responsibilities as an MP have made him reconsider his initial opposition to MPs advocating for sirens.
Reflecting on a recent experience, he noted the difficulty of juggling his duties in his constituency and Parliament.
“It is not an easy task at all. Today, for instance, I was with the President in my constituency. The Ahmadiyya Muslim community had their annual convention in Gomoa Pomadze. I had to be at the convention and in Parliament at the same time,” he said.
He recounted how he had to call a dispatch rider to navigate the traffic quickly, adding that the experience gave him a new understanding of why some MPs push for the legal use of sirens.
“I now understand the challenges MPs face. Imagine someone whose constituency is in, say, Paga, needing to go there with the President and return to Parliament. I think this perspective should be communicated to the public.”
However, John Dumelo, who was also sworn in recently as the MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon shared a contrasting opinion.
Speaking to media personalities after their first parliamentary orientation, John Dumelo expressed that while he understands why some MPs, like A Plus, might feel the need for sirens, he personally does not require one.
“Personally, I don’t think I need a siren to go about my duties as MP” Dumelo stated.
“Yes, some MPs like A Plus might genuinely need it, but for me, I can manage without it. That said, this is something that should be debated, as the roles and challenges of MPs vary.”
Dumelo further emphasized the importance of adapting to the realities of parliamentary work, which he described as different from public perception. “How Parliament operates is very different from what people outside think. I am ready to learn and serve my people better,” he added.
