Parliamentarians Haven’t Worked Exceptionally to Deserve 100% Pay Rise – Political Analyst
Mr. Samuel Boateng, a political analyst, has criticised the 100% pay increase under the Article 71 emoluments adjustment scheme.
He questioned the exceptional nature of the work being done by Parliament that deserves 100% salary rise, stating that Parliament’s inability to effectively hold the Executive arm of government accountable and drive development is a testament to its failures.
He therefore argued that Members of Parliament do not deserve a 100% salary increase.
He noted that Members of Parliament are also public servants, just like the police, teachers, health practitioners and other civil servants questioning what makes their work so unique that their salaries should be increased by 100%, while other government workers receive increases of only 9%, 8% or 6%.
He stressed that such disparities have compelled some teachers and medical doctors to leave their professions for politics in an attempt to improve their financial circumstances after experiencing the hardships associated with their professions.
Mr. Samuel Boateng also criticised Members of Parliament for what he described as their reluctance to effectively carry out their developmental responsibilities.
He said MPs move around their constituencies while some constituents continue to drink the same water as animals, students sit on bare floors to learn, and others study under trees.
He added that some MPs accept ministerial appointments, making it difficult for them to focus on the purpose for which they were elected as MPs.
According to him, some MPs neglect their constituents and allow them to suffer until the four-year electoral cycle draws closer.
He therefore questioned the rationale behind giving MPs such a significant pay increase.
Mr. Samuel Boateng said the “yeah, yeah” mantra, partisan politics and frequent walkouts have become hallmarks of the Parliament Ghana currently has.
He argued that MPs have put aside their crucial oversight responsibilities, which are intended to keep the government of the day on its toes by holding it accountable for promises made before winning elections and forming government.
He said Parliament has failed Ghanaians because issues that directly bring relief to citizens are not discussed in the Parliament house, instead, he claimed, MPs now prioritise their own interests while neglecting the constituents they represent in Parliament.
He argued that if Members of Parliament deserve a 100% salary increase, then all public servants should be entitled to the same percentage increase in their salaries.
