The Issue of Ex-Gratia and Article 71 Office Holders: A Call for Equity and Fairness.

Ghana, a nation rich in potential, continues to grapple with developmental challenges. These issues are not merely the result of external economic pressures, as some political leaders claim, but are deeply rooted in a systemic culture of excessive privileges for a select few and the pervasive corruption among public office holders.

The desire of public officials to live in luxury, drive expensive cars, and retire with extravagant benefits starkly contrasts with the poverty endured by the majority of Ghanaians. Beyond their lucrative salaries and allowances, these officials also receive hefty ex-gratia payments every four years. This recurring benefit stands in glaring disparity to the single end-of-service payments received by other workers, such as teachers, who serve for decades under very challenging conditions.

Why should these political elites, who often serve for short terms, enjoy such privileges repeatedly, while the ordinary teacher or nurse retires with a paltry pension? Why should public servants, who earn modest salaries and face daily struggles be sidelined while a select few continue drain the nation's coffers?

At the heart of this issue are Article 71 office holders—ministers, parliamentarians, and other high-ranking officials. Their extravagant benefits burden the state, leaving little for essential sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Ironically, many of the corrupt practices that erode public trust and economic stability originate from these offices. Inflated contracts, financial malfeasance, and misappropriation of public funds are all too common, underscoring the urgent need for reforms to address these excesses.

In stark contrast, essential government workers—teachers, nurses, and other civil servants—are underpaid and undervalued. Their sacrifices and dedication go largely unrecognized, leaving many to retire into poverty. This glaring disparity not only fosters resentment but also undermines national development efforts. I urge all civil servants to ask for good monthly salaries and demand better end of service benefits as well. The poor citizens can't always to be told the economy is weak while a few keep enjoying the same week economy. It's about time the payment of this Ex-Gratia is either stopped or be extended to cover all workers in the country.

Disappointingly, no political party has prioritized this imbalance. Successive governments have avoided meaningful conversations about reducing ex-gratia payments, limiting luxurious vehicle use, and ensuring financial accountability. Instead, they perpetuate a culture of entitlement, while essential public services like schools, roads, and clean water remain woefully inadequate.

The cost of these privileges is staggering. Funds spent on posh vehicles and extravagant perks could be redirected to build better schools, improve healthcare, and provide clean water for underserved communities. It is shameful that in a country where children study under trees and communities lack access to safe drinking water, leaders prioritize personal comfort over national development.

Interestingly, leaders in developed nations with thriving economies often exhibit humility and frugality. Many use public transport or modest vehicles, signaling a commitment to service rather than personal gain. In Ghana, however, leaders of a struggling economy flaunt wealth, an irony that underscores misplaced priorities.

The new government has an opportunity to redefine leadership by embracing humility and sacrifice. Appointees must resist the allure of luxurious lifestyles and prioritize the needs of the nation. Opting for less expensive vehicles, reducing ex-gratia payments, and ensuring accountability can save resources to reset the economy. True leadership demands sacrifice, and by demonstrating restraint, the government can inspire confidence and set a precedent for prioritizing the collective good.

To conclude, Ghana’s path to sustainable development hinges on equity, accountability, and sacrifice. The government must address the systemic inequalities that have plagued the nation for decades. By curbing the excesses of Article 71 office holders and redirecting resources to critical sectors, Ghana can chart a new course toward equitable and sustainable progress. Leadership is not about privilege but service. Only when leaders put the nation above personal gain can Ghana truly achieve its potential.It is time to get our priorities right and build a future that benefits all citizens—not just a privileged few.