Ex-MMDCEs urge Mahama to pay end-of-service benefits

Former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) who served under the government of President Nana Akufo-Addo have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to prioritise the payment of their long-delayed end-of-service benefits.

The officials said the delay has caused significant financial strain and requested urgent intervention, particularly with the festive season approaching.

Leo-Nelson Adzidogah, former Municipal Chief Executive for Akatsi South, submitted the appeal on behalf of the group. In the letter dated December 15, he emphasized that the former MMDCEs are seeking support on humanitarian grounds and not assigning blame to the current administration.

“On behalf of the former MMDCEs, we respectfully request that the payment of our end-of-service benefits be given high priority,” the letter stated. While acknowledging the government’s financial challenges, the officials stressed the impact of the delayed payments on their families and personal lives.

The former MMDCEs highlighted that it is a common practice for incoming governments to settle benefits for outgoing local government leaders. They cited 2017, when President Akufo-Addo’s administration paid similar benefits within six months of taking office, as precedent.

In a renewed plea, the ex-MMDCEs urged President Mahama to consider their request ahead of the Christmas season. “We humbly appeal for a favourable decision so that we can receive our benefits and enjoy the festive season with our families,” the letter added.

The group also welcomed supportive remarks from the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, describing them as encouraging. They expressed hope that President Mahama would respond with compassion and ensure that their claims are settled promptly.