Former members of the 8th Assembly of the Asuogyaman District Assembly in the Eastern Region have voiced their frustration over the delayed payment of their end-of-service benefits, threatening to take action if their demands are not met. The assembly members, 37 elected and 16 appointed, are demanding the fulfillment of the Local Government Act (Act 936), Section 11(2), which requires assemblies to determine and pay ex-gratia based on their revenue capacity at the end of each term.
Despite several appeals throughout the year, the Asuogyaman District Assembly has failed to meet this legal obligation, leaving former members dissatisfied and disillusioned.
The former assembly members have accused the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mavis Opokua Akunnor, and the District Coordinating Director of showing bad faith and neglecting their responsibilities to resolve the issue.
Hon. Osagyefo Kwaku Aboagye, a former member of the assembly, condemned the situation as “disheartening and disrespectful” to those who had served their constituents diligently. In a petition, he expressed his disappointment over the failure to pay the ex-gratia, stating, “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.”
Aboagye further lamented the lack of recognition for their hard work, noting, “The ex-gratia payment is not merely a financial matter; it is a recognition of our service and dedication to the people of Asuogyaman.”
Expressing his frustration, Aboagye criticized the DCE, who was once a member of the 8th Assembly, for her indifference to the issue. “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.
Aboagye urged both the DCE and the District Coordinating Director to prioritize the welfare of the former assembly members and to provide a clear timeline for the payment of the ex-gratia. He stressed the need for an 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.
