The President of the Ghana Association of Assembly Members (GAAM), Hon. Ackah Nelson Frank has announced plans to integrate assembly members into the Council of State, a move that could significantly enhance the representation of local interests at the national level.
The president’s call follows the fact that, the Assembly Members plays significant roles in nation building, especially the local government system. He said their duties in the various communities needs much attention and perhaps the need for them to be integrated into the council of state members.
“We need to have a representative at the council of state. We have major roles to play in the nation building and the local government system, I think the government can hear our voices if we get a representative there”, he stated.
Assembly members play a crucial role in Ghana’s local government system, established under PNDC Law 207 in 1988 and strengthened by the Local Government Act 1993 (Act 462). Their primary objective is to ensure governance is accessible to ordinary Ghanaians for individual, group, and community development.
In addition, he said Integrating assembly members into the Council of State could potentially enhance the representation of local interests at the national level. This move could also bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the Council, leading to more informed decision-making.
While the integration plan holds promise, it also presents challenges. Ensuring effective representation and avoiding conflicts of interest will be crucial. Moreover, the Council’s composition and decision-making processes may need to be revised to accommodate the new members.
The GAAM President’s announcement marks the beginning of a potentially transformative process. Stakeholders, including assembly members, government officials, and civil society organizations, must engage in constructive dialogue to shape the integration plan.
By harnessing the strengths of assembly members and the Council of State, Ghana can move closer to achieving more inclusive governance and equitable development.
He applauded both NDC and NPP for involving the plight of the assembly members into their manifestos this year, he said the association will accountable the political parties to fulfill when they come to power.
The local government expert noted that, it obvious the Assembly Members have suffered over the past years, calling for total welfare of them and payment of ex gratia of the outgoing assembly members.
On Onua Morning show today, 2th October, 2024, he made a promising statement to put the welfare of the members at heart.
