Parliament’s Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, is proposing the establishment of a committee dedicated to formulating legislation aimed at securing the government’s responsibility for the welfare of former lawmakers.
This proposal arises in light of increasing concerns voiced by Members of Parliament regarding the dire situation faced by former legislators, with some tragically succumbing to neglect.
While delivering remarks in tribute to the late MP for Ketu North, Modestus Ahiable, the Majority Leader underscored the imperative of tackling these challenges.
He voiced apprehension that the perception of corruption among MPs could impede endeavors to procure vital assistance, such as medical aid, for former lawmakers.
“If we don’t deal with the issues, Mr Speaker, and you create the impressions to Ghanaians that every MP is corrupt. Then when you are asking for medical support, then they say you have already stolen from the state. And that is why we have a problem, even ex-gratia, we have difficulty in defending it.
“You are paid GHC15,000, GHC17,000 and they deduct all manner of taxes. Today, this house must take this issue a step further. Hon. minority leadership let’s work at initiating it now. The welfare of this house, we should enact it, make it mandatory and make it a part of the conditions of service.
“Enough is enough. The judiciary, other arms of government are all being catered for by the state. MPs seem to have been forgotten, it cannot be.”
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Asawase, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, on March 7, 2024, highlighted the challenges faced by former MPs, emphasizing their vulnerability during times of illness due to the lack of post-retirement salary.