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Parliament Goes Into Closed-Door Session To Discuss Ex Gratia
The ongoing debate over ex gratia payments has led to increasing calls for constitutional reforms. Advocates argue for a restructured system that aligns emoluments with Ghana’s fiscal conditions, ensuring equity and sustainability in public expenditure.
On Thursday, Ghana’s Parliament convened a closed-door session to discuss ex gratia payments for Article 71 officeholders, including members of the executive, judiciary, and legislature. This issue remains a contentious aspect of the country’s governance under the 1992 Constitution.
Understanding Article 71
Article 71 of Ghana’s Constitution mandates the determination of salaries, allowances, and benefits for specified high-ranking public officials. These officeholders include:
- Executive Branch: The President, Vice President, Ministers, and Deputy Ministers.
- Legislative Branch: The Speaker of Parliament, Deputy Speakers, and Members of Parliament (MPs).
- Judiciary: The Chief Justice and Justices of the Superior Courts.
- Independent Officers: The Auditor-General and other constitutional officers.
The emoluments are recommended by a committee appointed by the President in consultation with the Council of State. Parliament approves the committee’s proposals for the executive and judiciary, while the executive ratifies the benefits for MPs, the Speaker, and Deputy Speakers.
Criticisms of the Current System
The reciprocal nature of this arrangement has drawn criticism for fostering a lack of accountability and transparency. Many view the system as a “scratch my back, I scratch yours” dynamic, with the executive and legislative branches mutually endorsing benefits that critics argue are disproportionate to Ghana’s economic realities.
This perception has sparked public discontent, particularly among ordinary public sector workers, who often face stagnant wages and limited benefits compared to the emoluments of Article 71 officeholders.
Calls for Reform
The ongoing debate over ex gratia payments has led to increasing calls for constitutional reforms. Advocates argue for a restructured system that aligns emoluments with Ghana’s fiscal conditions, ensuring equity and sustainability in public expenditure.
Incoming President’s Stance
John Mahama, Ghana’s incoming President, has pledged to abolish the Article 71 ex gratia arrangement if given the mandate. This proposal has gained significant support from the public, who see it as a step toward reducing economic inequality and fostering a more accountable governance structure.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com
