I expect NDC MPs to oppose any proposed ex-gratia increase — Sulemana Braimah

Sulemana Braimah, the Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), says he expects that Members of Parliament (MPs) from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will strongly oppose any proposed increment in ex-gratia for members of the 8th Parliament.

Braimah expressed his stance in a social media post on Friday, November 8, highlighting the need for MPs to consider the economic difficulties the nation currently faces.

In his statement, Braimah pointed out the ongoing economic challenges and stressed that it would be inappropriate for parliamentarians to approve additional benefits amidst the country's struggling financial landscape.

“Given how bad the economy is, I look forward to a very solid and robust opposition from NDC MPs to proposals by the government for adjustments or increment to Ex-Gratia for MPs of the 8th Parliament,” Braimah wrote.

This comment comes amidst growing public scrutiny over the ex-gratia payments, which are lump-sum end-of-service benefits awarded to MPs and other high-ranking officials at the end of their service.

Critics argue that these payments place additional financial strain on the national budget, especially when the economy is under significant pressure.

Some argue that the funds allocated for such benefits could be redirected towards social services and infrastructural development, areas many believe are more urgent amid the country’s current economic crisis.

Meanwhile, NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama has promised to abolish the policy if re-elected in the upcoming polls.