Former MMDCEs Appeal to Mahama for End-of-Service Benefits – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a heartfelt appeal timed ahead of the festive season, former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) who served under Ghana’s previous administration have urged President John Dramani Mahama to prioritize the payment of their end-of-service benefits. In a formal letter dated December 15, 2025, signed by Leo-Nelson Adzidogah – former Municipal Chief Executive for Akatsi South – the group emphasized humanitarian grounds for expedited processing. This development underscores broader questions about transition protocols, fiscal responsibilities, and the welfare of public servants in Ghana.

Key Points

Background: Understanding MMDCE Roles and Payment Protocols

Who Are MMDCEs?

Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) are appointed chief administrators of Ghana’s 261 local assemblies. They oversee critical services including infrastructure, sanitation, and community development. Their appointments are politically aligned, meaning each new administration typically replaces incumbent MMDCEs.

End-of-Service Benefits: Legal and Practical Framework

Under Ghana’s Labor Act (Act 651) and related pension regulations, public sector employees – including political appointees – are entitled to end-of-service benefits. These typically include:

• Accrued leave pay
• Gratuity (a percentage of final basic salary)
• Pension contributions

For MMDCEs, benefit calculations consider tenure length, responsibility allowances, and inflation adjustments. However, payment processing relies on administrative coordination between the Local Government Service, the Ministry of Local Government, and the Treasury.

Historical Precedent: The 2017 Example

The letter specifically invokes the 2017 transition, when President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration paid benefits to John Mahama-era MMDCEs within six months of assuming office. This established an informal yet influential benchmark for successor governments to honor.

Analysis: Implications and Broader Context

Fiscal Priorities in a Transitional Period

Ghana’s current government faces multifaceted fiscal pressures, including debt servicing, inflation management, and ongoing infrastructure projects. The appeal arrives amid ongoing debates about resource allocation between legacy obligations and new development agendas. Analysts note that delayed payments to political appointees, while symptomatic of broader budgetary constraints, can erode public trust in governance continuity.

Legal vs. Political Dimensions

While end-of-service benefits are legally mandated, their timely payment often hinges on political will. The “established practice” cited by former MMDCEs reflects an understanding that outgoing administrations lack the administrative capacity to finalize payments before handover. This creates an implicit expectation for incoming leaders to address outstanding claims as a gesture of goodwill.

Humanitarian Considerations and Public Perception

The appeal’s emphasis on the Christmas season highlights strategic timing. Beyond individual hardship, the gesture could bolster President Mahama’s image as empathetic and administratively diligent. Conversely, delays may fuel perceptions of neglect toward loyal party members and dedicated public servants.

Practical Advice: Navigating the Process for Affected MMDCEs

Step-by-Step Guide for Claimants

1. Document Verification: Ensure all service records, appointment letters, and allowance certifications are complete and archived.
2. Official Channels: Submit formal follow-ups through the Ministry of Local Government, copying the Local Government Service and the Treasury.
3. Collective Advocacy: Maintain organized advocacy groups to amplify collective voices, as seen in the December 15 letter.
4. Media Engagement: Responsible media outreach can generate public support and prompt official responses.

Leveraging Legal Recourse

While litigation is a last resort, affected MMDCEs may consult Ghana’s Labor Commission or the National Labour Court if benefits remain unpaid beyond reasonable deadlines. Legal counsel specializing in public sector employment disputes can assess viable options.

Financial Planning During Delays

Experts advise affected individuals to:

• Prioritize essential expenses (housing, healthcare)
• Explore short-term credit options cautiously
• Document all communication with government agencies for future reference

FAQ: End-of-Service Benefits for Former MMDCEs

What constitutes an end-of-service benefit for MMDCEs?

Benefits include accrued leave pay, gratuity (typically 25–30% of final basic salary), and accrued pension contributions. Calculations factor in tenure, responsibility allowances, and inflation adjustments.

Why is the incoming government typically responsible for payments?

Outgoing administrations often lack the time and administrative capacity to finalize payments before transition. The successor government inherits this obligation as part of continuity in public service obligations.

What precedent does the 2017 payment set?

The swift payment of benefits to Mahama-era MMDCEs by Akufo-Addo’s government established an informal expectation that new administrations will prioritize legacy claims within six months.

Can former MMDCEs take legal action?

Yes. While advocacy and official channels are preferred, the Labor Act and Pension Law provide legal grounds for pursuing unpaid benefits through the Labor Commission or National Labour Court.

How does inflation impact benefit valuations?

Benefits are often adjusted for inflation either through statutory indices or ad hoc reviews, ensuring real value retention. Delays, however, expose recipients to purchasing power erosion.

Conclusion

The appeal by former MMDCEs to President Mahama transcends individual financial concerns, reflecting broader institutional expectations about governance continuity and humanitarian responsibility. As Ghana navigates its latest transitional phase, the timely resolution of these claims could reinforce public confidence in the state’s commitment to honoring service – regardless of political affiliation. Observers will watch closely to see whether this appeal aligns with historical precedent or signals a shift in post-election fiscal priorities.