The Ghana Association of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (GAAM) has taken a bold stance by rejecting the ex-gratia payments offered to 128 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).
In a statement released to the press, GAAM expressed its disappointment and discontent with the call by these 128 MMDCEs demanding payment of ex gratia from the government transition team.
According to the National President of the association, Mr. Ackah Nelson Frank, the ex-gratia payments are an insult to the former assembly members who were denied their ex gratia and other benefits by these same 128 MMDCEs who are fighting the transition team for so-called end of benefit allowances.
The association argues that the government must rather pay former assembly members than give heed to these so-called aggrieved MMDCEs, adding that it doesn’t reflect the true value of the services rendered by these individuals during their tenure.
GAAM’s rejection of the ex-gratia payments is not just about the monetary value; it’s also about the principle of respect and recognition these MMDCEs refused to honor assembly members during their tenure in office.
The association feels that the government’s offer is a slap in the face against the assembly members. “We won’t allow the transition to pay anything to these so-called 128 assembly members. We assembly members also need equal treatment. Our members have dedicated their lives to serving this country, and it’s only fair that they are treated with dignity and respect.”
The GAAM President emphasized that the association will not back down on its decision, stating that “no respect for assembly members, no payment of ex gratia for MMDCEs.” The association is calling on the government to reconsider its offer and provide a more substantial and respectable package for the former assembly members.
The GAAM’s stance has received widespread support from various stakeholders, including some former government officials and civil society organizations. They argue that the government’s offer is indeed inadequate and that the former assembly members deserve better.
As the standoff between GAAM and the government continues, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold. One thing is certain, however: GAAM’s “no respect, no pay” stance has ignited a national conversation about the value and respect accorded to public servants in Ghana.
Please call Mr. Ackah Nelson Frank for insight into the story on 0242391661
