The Ghana Association of Assembly Members (GAAM) is demanding a flat rate of GHC 5000 as ex gratia for outgoing members.
Mr. Frank Ackah Nelson, the Western North Regional President asserted that assembly members who have served for four years or more deserve proper recognition, and the small amounts proposed by some assemblies are unacceptable.
Speaking to Happyghana.com Mr. Nelson voiced his dissatisfaction with the delays in the meager ex gratia payments, which he believes demotivates incoming members. He emphasized that nothing less than GHC 5000 is acceptable and called on the local Government Ministry to expedite payments to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of the outgoing members.
He stressed that the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) have no right to reduce the proposed amount and urged the various Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to cooperate to avoid misunderstandings.
According to him assemblies proposed and paid GHC2,500 to outgoing members which they intend maintaining.
He expressed concern regarding the unfair treatment of assembly members and highlighted the substantial financial investments required to secure the position. Specifically, he mentioned that an assembly member had to spend a minimum of GHC15000.00 during the most recent election.
While emphasizing the significant cost incurred by assembly members in fulfilling their commitments to their people and promoting development within their communities, Mr. Nelson appealed to authorities for a monthly salary of GHC 1500.00 for assembly members to enable them effectively fulfill their responsibilities.
