Presidential Committee Calls for Non-Partisan Discussion on Article 71 Office Holders’ Privileges

The Presidential Committee on Emoluments wants the public to engage in non-partisan and solution-oriented discussions regarding the privileges of Article 71 Office Holders.

Dr. Janet Ampadu Fofie, Chairperson of the Presidential Committee in her address at a conference in Accra emphasised the importance of finding practical solutions to issues related to constitutional provisions.

Article 71 Office Holders include high-ranking government officials and heads of independent institutions, including the President, Vice-President, Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, and others. Dr. Fofie stressed the need for a national consensus on arrangements that best serve the country’s interests.

Acknowledging the current economic challenges, Dr. Fofie stated that the Committee is open to ideas on restructuring the emoluments of Article 71 Office Holders. She mentioned that terms like “ex-gratia” are not constitutionally provided for and pointing at the importance of focusing on actionable solutions rather than merely discussing problems.

Dr. Fofie posed critical questions regarding the implementation of recommendations, urging stakeholders to focus on practical solutions. She underscored the need for clarity on the process of determining emoluments, particularly at the beginning of a President’s term.

The Committee’s appeal for a non-partisan approach underscores the importance of reaching a consensus that serves the nation’s best interests regarding Article 71 Office Holders’ privileges.