The National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG) has called on the government to urgently release all outstanding monthly allowances owed to Assembly Members across the country, as well as expedite the procurement of motorbikes promised to them.
This appeal was made at the Association’s just-ended 4th Quarter National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting held at the Tyco City Hotel in Sunyani, where concerns about persistent delays in allowance payments dominated discussions.
NALAG expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and his government for allocating GH₵100 million in the 2025 national budget specifically for Assembly Members’ monthly allowances. According to the Association, this allocation demonstrates the administration’s recognition of the critical role Assembly Members play in local governance and national development.
However, NALAG lamented that despite the budgetary allocation, only allowances for April and May have been released so far—leaving six months of unpaid arrears from June to November. The Association described the situation as worrying, noting that the delay is putting significant financial strain on Assembly Members who continue to serve their communities with dedication despite minimal logistical support.
Formal Appeal to the Ministry of Finance
In its resolution, NALAG made an earnest appeal to the Minister for Finance to immediately release the remaining funds to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs for onward disbursement.
The Association stressed that timely payment of allowances is not only a matter of fairness but also essential for strengthening decentralization and ensuring effective grassroots governance.
Logistical Challenges: Call for Motorbikes
NALAG further urged the government to fast-track the procurement and distribution of motorbikes for all Assembly Members. The Association noted that motorbikes were promised as part of efforts to improve mobility and operational efficiency at the local level.
Many Assembly Members, NALAG noted, work across vast geographic zones and struggle due to inadequate transportation. The provision of motorbikes, therefore, remains a critical intervention that will enhance supervision, community engagement, monitoring, and overall service delivery.
Assurance to Assembly Members
NALAG reassured all Assembly Members that their welfare remains a top priority. The Association emphasized that it is:
Actively engaging high-level government officials on the matter
Strongly advocating for the immediate release of all outstanding allowances
Consistently lobbying for the procurement of motorbikes
NALAG commended Assembly Members for their patience, commitment, and unwavering service to their communities despite the logistical and financial challenges they face.
Conclusion
The Association expressed confidence that both the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs will act swiftly to resolve the matter. Addressing these concerns, NALAG said, is crucial to sustaining Ghana’s decentralization agenda, motivating Assembly Members, and improving local governance across the country.
The statement was signed by Hon. Alfred Asiedu Adjei, President of NALAG.
