This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.

View the Monthly Salary and Other Benefits of Ghana's Speaker of Parliament as Per the Constitution

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 Source: Eric Afatsao

Born on September 24, 1957, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin is a well-known Ghanaian politician who now serves as Speaker of the Ghanaian Parliament. First appointed to the esteemed position on January 7, 2021, Bagbin was re-elected on January 7, 2025, for a second term in recognition of his outstanding leadership. Bagbin is essential to maintaining parliamentary norms and facilitating efficient legislative processes in his capacity as Speaker. The high-level position he holds and the wide range of duties it involves are reflected in his salary package.

The precise amount of the Speaker's remuneration is still unknown, however there are certain lessons to be learned from Ghanaian MPs' salaries. It has been reported that MPs receive a base income of about GHS 28,017 per month, or GHS 336,204 per year. MPs also get sitting allowances, which amount to roughly GHS 2,000 per session.

With an estimated 250 sitting days in a year, these allowances can total up to GHS 500,000 annually. MPs are also entitled to benefits like official accommodation, constituency allowances, and specific reimbursements, such as:

Support for office stationery: GHS 1,550 per quarter.

End-of-meeting allowance: GHS 15,000.

Committee meeting attendance: 25% of their consolidated salary.

The Speaker is paid much more than ordinary Members of Parliament because he is the highest ranking member of Parliament. Leadership positions like the Speaker's have higher salaries, more allowances, and special privileges. The Inter-Parliamentary Union emphasizes that these benefits are intended to reflect the Speaker's important duties, which include regulating parliamentary debates, making sure constitutional procedures are followed, and representing Parliament in national and international affairs.

The Speaker’s compensation extends beyond monetary rewards. Bagbin enjoys several exclusive benefits, such as an official residence, a fleet of vehicles for official duties, a dedicated security detail, and comprehensive medical coverage. These provisions are intended to support him in performing his duties with the highest level of efficiency and dignity.

However, a significant issue persists regarding the lack of transparency in the remuneration of high-ranking officials in Ghana, including the Speaker. The exact figures for Bagbin’s salary and allowances remain unknown, which has sparked public discourse about the need for openness in the financial compensation of public officeholders. Critics argue that making these details publicly accessible would promote accountability and reassure citizens about the prudent use of taxpayer mone

Source: Eric Afatsao