By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, Jan 30, GNA – Ghana’s Parliament has taken a significant step towards securing the financial future of its former members.
As a reault, a nine-member committee, chaired by Alhaji Collins Dauda, a National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Asutifi South, has been established to explore pension scheme models suitable for former legislators.
The committee’s membership includes Mr Samson Ahi, NDC MP for Bodi; Mr Atta Issah, NDC MP for Sagnarigu; Madam Millicent Yeboah Amankwah, NDC MP for Sunyani West; Alhaji Alhassan Suhuyini, NDC MP for Tamale North; Dr Stephen Amoah, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Nhyiaeso and Dr Mahama Tia Kabiru, NPP MP for Walewale
The committee’s formation follows a proposal by Mr Mahama Ayariga, Majority Leader, to create a pension scheme fund using proceeds from carbon credits to support former lawmakers.
This innovative approach aims to ensure that former parliamentarians receive a dignified retirement package.
Speaking on the Floor of the House, Mr Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Majority Chief Whip urged the committee to provide its report within 45 days.
“Mr Speaker, we advise them with our terms of reference, and they will be given six weeks to do their work,” he stated.
“… Mr Speaker, Alhaji Collins Dauda of course will be a member. Samson Ahi will also be a member. Then we are including two first timers from our side and gender balance so Atta Issah, the MP for Sagnarigu, will also be a member. Then our sister Millicent Yeboah Amankwah will also be a member. Then Alhassan Suhuyini will also be a member.
“Then the Minority side will be constituted by Stephen Amoah, as well as Dr Mahama Tia Kabiru,” he said.
“… We advise them with our terms of reference, and they will be given six weeks to do their work, and we propose that Collins Dauda be the chairperson of the committee,” Mr Dafeamekpor added.
The committee’s recommendations will be crucial in shaping the pension scheme for former lawmakers.
This development demonstrated Parliament’s commitment to addressing the welfare of its former members.
The proposed pension scheme is expected to provide a financial safety net for former lawmakers, ensuring they can maintain a dignified standard of living after their service.
GNA