The Member of Parliament for the Weija-Gbawe constituency, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaibu, has stirred nationwide debate following his unexpected explanation for missing parliamentary pre-sittings — a lack of transportation fare.
In a comment that left many stunned, the MP told Parliament, “Mr. Speaker, sometimes it’s a matter of lorry fare. Since this government came in, it’s been very difficult for me to even get money for lorry fare.”
His candid remarks, made during a parliamentary session, have since gone viral, igniting heated reactions on social media and among the general public.
While some believe the MP was being sarcastic to highlight the financial challenges lawmakers face under the current administration, others are questioning the sincerity and appropriateness of such a statement from a sitting MP.
Critics argue that, as a public officeholder, Hon. Shaibu should have access to allowances or alternative means of transportation to perform his legislative duties. Others, however, see his comments as a reflection of the wider economic hardship facing many Ghanaians, including public servants.
The controversy has sparked broader conversations about the state of parliamentary welfare, accountability, and whether such statements downplay the struggles of ordinary citizens who face far greater challenges without access to state resources.
As of now, the MP has not issued a clarification on whether his remarks were made in jest or were a genuine reflection of his personal struggles.
Story by Romeo!!