Assembly Members in the Tano North Municipality have indicated that the full payment of nine months of outstanding allowance across the country is a concrete step toward strengthening the nation’s decentralisation framework.

At a press conference held at Duayaw-Nkwanta in the Ahafo region, the Presiding Member (PM), Michael Houston Boakye, on behalf of his colleagues, lauded the government’s commitment to the "Reset Agenda," which seeks to signal a significant shift in Ghana’s decentralization policy.

"This timely intervention has brought relief and renewed motivation to us at the grassroots level," the Presiding Member stated during the address.

"We work tirelessly to support community development, and this gesture demonstrates a dedication to the welfare of local representatives."

Through the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development, the government plans to release a larger GH¢25 million package for payouts

This funding supports 9,085 assembly members across all 261 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

Under the new policy, members now receive a monthly allowance of GH¢1,300, supplemented by sitting allowances of up to GH¢500 provided two to three times a year.

The members reserved special praise for President John Mahama, stressing that it has empowered grassroots leadership and breathed new life into local governance.

Mr. Boakye also commended the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tano North, Pius Sampson Opoku, describing the fund release as "smooth and transparent," attributing the seamless process to the MCE’s leadership and coordination.

With these funds now in hand, the representatives have pledged to return to their various electoral areas with "integrity, diligence, and loyalty," focused on championing new development initiatives to improve the lives of their constituents.

For years, the role of an Assembly Member in Ghana was seen as largely sacrificial. This new policy transitions the role from a purely voluntary service to a more supported position.

While not a full-time salary, the stipend is designed to cushion members against the costs of communal service and ensure they can operate with greater efficiency.

As the "Reset Agenda" takes hold, Michael Houston Boakye and the Tano North Assembly Members believe this financial backing will be the catalyst for more effective and accountable local administration across the country.