Mahama Delivers on Promise: Assembly Members to Receive At least GHC1,300 Monthly Allowances

President John Dramani Mahama is keeping his promise to strengthen local governance as his government allocates significant funds to provide monthly allowances for Assembly Members across the country.

This landmark move, announced by Finance Minister Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson in the maiden budget statement presented to Parliament today, March 11th, 2025, marks a significant step towards recognising and supporting the crucial role Assembly Members play in their communities.

During the 2024 electioneering campaign, then-NDC presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama pledged to provide monthly allowances to Assembly Members if elected. With the NDC victory, this promise has now been realised, injecting much-needed support into the foundational level of Ghanaian governance. The budget statement revealed an allocation of GHC100,000,000 annually specifically for this purpose.

This allocation translates to approximately GHC1,300 per month for each of the nation’s 6,300 Assembly Members. While the sum may not be exorbitant, it represents a substantial and much-deserved acknowledgement of their dedication and contributions to their respective Electoral Areas.

For years, Assembly Members have toiled tirelessly with minimal remuneration, serving as the vital link between central government and the grassroots.

Often the first point of contact for residents during emergencies and local issues, they operate on a largely voluntary basis, relying on personal resources and the goodwill of their constituents. This lack of financial support has often hindered their ability to effectively carry out their responsibilities and address the needs of their communities.

The introduction of these monthly allowances aims to rectify this imbalance. By providing a consistent source of income, Assembly Members will be empowered to dedicate more time and resources to their duties. This could include attending more community meetings, engaging in more robust problem-solving, and advocating more effectively for the needs of their communities.

The impact of this initiative is expected to be far-reaching. A stronger and more empowered local government system will undoubtedly lead to more responsive and effective governance. With Assembly Members better equipped to address local challenges, citizens will be more likely to engage with the political process and feel that their voices are being heard.

Furthermore, the payment of allowances is expected to attract more qualified individuals to serve as Assembly Members, leading to a higher calibre of representation at the local level. This can contribute to more informed decision-making and more effective implementation of development projects.

President Mahama’s commitment to local governance is a cornerstone of his “Reset Ghana Agenda,” which aims to revitalise various sectors of the nation, starting from the ground up. By investing in Assembly Members, the government is investing in the very foundation of the democratic process, paving the way for a more participatory and equitable society.

The announcement of this allocation has been met with widespread approval from Assembly Members across the country, who see it as a long-overdue recognition of their hard work and dedication.

This initiative promises to not only improve the livelihoods of these dedicated public servants but also to significantly strengthen the local government system, ultimately benefiting communities across Ghana. The monthly allowances are not just a financial reward; they are an investment in the future of a more vibrant and responsive Ghana.

By Anthony Obeng Afrane