Speaker calls for scrapping of EX-gratia; says it has outlived its purpose

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called for the scrapping of ex-gratia payments to parliamentarians and government appointees, arguing that the practice has outlived its usefulness. 

He explained that the ex-gratia system introduced under Article 71 to curb corruption among public officials and political officeholders has exacerbated the problem.

Corruption, he noted, has persisted among political leaders and public officers in the current democratic era, and he is committed to removing this obstacle. 

Speaking at a public forum in Kumasi, part of the 30th-anniversary celebrations of the 4th Republic, Mr. Bagbin expressed his readiness to support the amendment of Article 71 to abolish ex-gratia payments.

The anniversary, themed "Thirty Years of Parliamentary Democracy under the Fourth Republic: The Journey Thus Far," provided an opportunity for parliament to reflect on its achievements, acknowledge challenges, and reaffirm the principles of democracy, justice, and equality that have guided the nation over the past three decades.

 It also aimed to remind participants of the progress made and the need to continue strengthening democratic institutions and processes.

Mr. Bagbin pointed out that the initial intent of ex-gratia payments was to support political officeholders after they left active service, but these payments have failed to reduce corruption. 

He emphasized that the public should understand that ex-gratia payments are not limited to parliamentarians but also include other public servants and thus fully expressed his support of calls to abolish Article 71 of the Constitution.