Former assembly members of the 8th Assembly of the Asuogyaman District Assembly in the Eastern Region have expressed their frustration over the delayed payment of their end-of-service benefits, threatening to storm the assembly if their demands are not met.
The Local Government Act (Act 936), Section 11(2), mandates assemblies to determine and pay ex-gratia based on their revenue capacity at the end of each term.
However, since the start of the year, the Asuogyaman District Assembly has failed to fulfill this obligation to its 37 elected and 16 appointed assembly members, despite multiple appeals.
The former assembly members accuse the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mavis Opokua Akunnor, and the District Coordinating Director of showing bad faith in resolving the issue.
Hon. Osagyefo Kwaku Aboagye, a former assembly member, described the situation as “disheartening and disrespectful” to those who had served their constituents.
“It is with great displeasure that I address the ongoing issue regarding the non-payment of ex-gratia to members of the Assembly, an issue that has not only affected us personally but has also cast a shadow on the integrity and commitment of our local governance,” the petition read.
He lamented that despite their significant contributions, they now feel unappreciated.
“The ex-gratia payment is not merely a financial matter; it is a recognition of our service and dedication to the people of Asuogyaman,” he stated.
Osagyefo Kwaku Aboagye also expressed disappointment in the DCE, noting that she was once a member of the 8th Assembly and should be familiar with the sacrifices made by assembly members.
“It is deeply troubling to see the DCE turn a deaf ear to our plight, ignoring our calls for justice and fairness. This lack of responsiveness undermines the spirit of collaboration and respect that should exist within our local governance,” he said.
He urged the DCE and the District Coordinating Director to prioritize their well-being and provide a clear timeline for the payment of the ex-gratia.
He called for immediate resolution to restore trust and respect in the district’s governance.
“Asuogyaman District deserves leadership that values its people, including those who have served in the Assembly. Let us work together to restore the trust and respect that should be the foundation of our governance,” he emphasized
