I don't need a siren to function as an MP - John Dumelo

The Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, John Dumelo, has shared his views on the use of sirens for parliamentary duties, stating that he does not consider them essential.

While acknowledging that sirens can make transportation more convenient, Dumelo asserted that they are unnecessary for him to carry out his role as an MP.

His remarks come amid ongoing discussions among MPs regarding the use of sirens. Dumelo noted that while some of his colleagues support the practice, he personally disagrees.

Addressing a recent comment by Kwame Obeng Asare, popularly known as A Plus, who expressed a changed perspective on the necessity of sirens for MPs, Dumelo said:

I was with him in parliament for orientation, but I just left. A Plus says we need sirens, maybe that's his opinion, but personally, I don't think I need a siren.

He added:

I know some people do, and it's a debate that has been ongoing for some time, but personally, I don't.

Personally, I don't need sirens as a member of Parliament. - Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Hon. John Dumelo pic.twitter.com/irfsLvzzaN

— EDHUB????? (@eddie_wrt) January 12, 2025

Dumelo was elected as the MP for Ayawaso West Wuogon in the 2024 general election under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ticket.

The use of sirens by government officials, including MPs, has been a contentious issue in the past. A proposed law permitting their use faced widespread public backlash and was eventually shelved.

Dumelo’s comments come in the wake of remarks by Kwame Asare Obeng, known as A Plus, the newly elected MP for Gomoa Central, who has recently shifted his stance on the use of sirens.

Speaking in an interview on JoyNews, A Plus recounted his experiences in office, which he said have reshaped his initial opposition to the practice.

I remember that before I entered Parliament, I was complaining about MPs and why they wanted sirens, he confessed. I called my friend, who is a dispatch rider. I said, ‘Where are you?’ He said, ‘I am at my place.’ I said, ‘Please, I need you to take me out of this traffic and get me to the constituency now and bring me back to Parliament.’

Reflecting on the demands of his dual responsibilities as a legislator and constituency representative, A Plus admitted that he now understands why MPs advocate for the legal use of sirens.

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 also highlighted the challenges MPs from distant constituencies face.

Can you imagine someone whose constituency is in, say, Paga, and you have to go there with the President and then return to Parliament on the same day? It’s difficult.

Both MPs’ statements reflect differing perspectives on a long-standing debate about the practicality and necessity of sirens for easing the logistical burdens of parliamentary duties.

Read Full Story