Transparency among Parliamentary Staff key to Strengthen Ghana’s Democracy- Dr. Aggrey-Darko Advocates
In a call to uphold democratic values, Dr. Evans Aggrey-Darko, Head of the Civil Service in Ghana, has urged parliamentary staff to be transparent and candid in their duties.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the three-day Open Parliament and Information Services Week in Accra on October 29, 2024, he emphasized that the staff play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of Ghana’s democracy.
“Parliament is the cornerstone of our democracy, and its staff must ensure neutrality and transparency in their work,” Dr. Aggrey-Darko stated.
He highlighted the significance of an open parliament, stating that it is committed to keeping citizens informed and holding their representatives accountable.
The weeklong event, organized by the Information Services Division of Parliament, aims to enhance public understanding of parliamentary functions. The first day focused on the newly launched Green Library project.
Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, Deputy Clerk of Parliament in charge of Corporate and Financial Management Services on behalf of Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, reiterated the commitment of parliamentary staff to uphold good governance.
“Our responsibility is to provide essential information that facilitates informed decision-making while promoting transparency and the rule of law,” he said.
Dr. Gloria Sarku Kumawu, Deputy Clerk for Information Management Services, emphasized the importance of the Open Parliament Week as a platform for citizens to engage with the workings of Parliament.
She encouraged staff to participate actively in the program, which includes exhibitions of various parliamentary departments.
The event aims to enhance transparency and accountability while encouraging active citizen engagement.
The initiative aligns with global trends in parliamentary openness and seeks to build trust between citizens and their representatives.
As part of the Open Parliament initiative, the Information Management Services Division proudly opened the Green Library, a modern space designed to foster learning and collaboration within the parliamentary community.
This library is more than just a collection of books; it symbolizes sustainability and serves as a sanctuary for personal growth and teamwork.
The Green Library features natural elements, sustainable design, and digital integration, creating a serene environment for MPs and staff. Highlights include cozy relaxation corners and access to a wide range of resources, from political texts to self-development materials. The library aims to promote well-being and reduce stress among users, enhancing focus and creativity in legislative activities.
It was organized in collaboration with the Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica) led by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Alban S.K. Bagbin to set the tone for the Departments of the Parliamentary Service and civil society organizations to showcase their contributions to promoting good governance.
This initiative marks a significant step toward fostering a stronger relationship between Ghana’s Parliament and its citizens, reinforcing the commitment to democratic governance and transparency.
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