An Assembly Member for the Padmore Electoral Area in Tema Community One, Honourable Charles Amos, has appealed to the government to increase the monthly allowances paid to assembly members across the country, citing the financial challenges associated with their responsibilities at the local government level.
Speaking in an interview on Plan B 104.5 FM’s Nkosuosɛm, hosted by Obidehyie Kofi Sekyi, Hon. Amos argued that the current monthly allowance of GH¢1,300 is inadequate to support the numerous duties performed by assembly members in their respective electoral areas.
He explained that assembly members are expected to address community concerns, attend meetings, facilitate development initiatives and participate in sanitation exercises, among other responsibilities. According to him, these activities often require personal financial contributions, particularly in areas such as transportation and community mobilisation.
Hon. Amos noted that assembly members frequently use their personal resources to respond to the needs of residents, despite receiving limited financial support. He cited general clean-up exercises as an example, explaining that organising such activities requires some level of financial motivation and logistical assistance to encourage community participation.
He further observed that assembly members occupy an important position in Ghana’s local governance structure, serving as representatives of their communities and helping to communicate the concerns of residents to the appropriate authorities. He therefore believes their financial welfare deserves greater attention from the government.
Making reference to this administration under President John Dramani Mahama, Hon. Amos indicated that assembly members received a monthly allowance of GH¢1,300. Although he acknowledged the amount, he argued that the current demands of the office make an upward review necessary.
He suggested that if the amount could be increased to GH¢2,000 itwould provide some relief to assembly members and enable them to meet their responsibilities more effectively. He maintained that the appeal should not be viewed as an attempt to make excessive demands but as a legitimate call for improved working conditions.
Ahead of the Finance Minister’s budget presentation, Hon. Amos appealed to the government to consider the concerns of assembly members and make provisions to improve their financial conditions. He stressed that supporting assembly members financially would strengthen grassroots governance and enable them to serve their communities more effectively.
He concluded by urging the Finance Minister to recognise the contribution of assembly members to national development and give serious consideration to their welfare in the budget.
By: Raphael Narh Gatourhe
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