John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has reiterated his commitment to abolishing ex-gratia payments to public officials if elected in the 2024 general elections. Speaking at the launch of the NDC’s manifesto in Winneba, Central Region, on Saturday, August 24, Mahama emphasized his determination to cut out waste and ostentation in government.
“Abolish the payment of ex-gratia and cut out waste and ostentation in government. Address the disparities in the remuneration of Article 71 officeholders and the broader public service,” Mahama declared.
He also pledged to establish an Independent Emoluments Commission, merging the Presidential Commission on Emoluments and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. This new commission aims to ensure transparency and accountability in determining salaries and benefits for public officials.