The Ghana Association of Assembly Members (GAAM) has commended the government for the timely payment of allowances due its members, describing the move as a positive step toward improving local governance operations across the country.
The National President of GAAM, Hon. Ackah Nelson Frank, made the remarks in a statement, noting that the payment of allowances would go a long way in motivating assembly members in the discharge of their duties.
He said assembly members play a critical role at the grassroots level, serving as the direct link between government and communities, and therefore deserve consistent financial support to perform effectively.
According to him, delays in the payment of allowances in the past have created significant challenges, affecting mobility, community engagement, and the ability of members to respond to pressing local issues.
Hon. Frank acknowledged that the recent payment has brought relief to many members who had faced financial constraints while carrying out their responsibilities.
He expressed appreciation to the government for what he described as its renewed commitment to supporting decentralisation and strengthening local governance structures.
However, he was quick to urge authorities to ensure that such payments are made regularly and without delays, warning that inconsistencies could undermine morale among assembly members.
He stressed that timely payment systems would not only enhance efficiency but also improve accountability and service delivery at the local level.
The GAAM President further noted that assembly members often operate under challenging conditions, including limited logistical support and high community expectations.
He explained that despite these challenges, members continue to play a vital role in mobilising communities for development projects, conflict resolution, and local decision-making.
Hon. Frank therefore called for the establishment of a more predictable and structured payment system to prevent future delays and uncertainties.
He added that sustained financial commitment to assembly members would strengthen grassroots democracy and improve citizen participation in governance.
Some members of GAAM have also welcomed the development, describing it as encouraging and timely, especially as local governance activities intensify across districts.
They, however, echoed the call for consistency, noting that delayed payments in previous periods have affected planning and fieldwork.
The association reiterated its readiness to collaborate with the government and relevant institutions to improve the decentralisation system, while ensuring that assembly members are adequately supported to deliver on their mandate.
