Ex-president Mahama confesses: “I have no way of refunding my ex-gratia”

Former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has made a statement on the issue of the refund of ex-gratia he received while in office. According to Mahama, he cannot refund the money because he has already spent it.

Ex-gratia is a payment made to public officials, such as Members of Parliament and the President, at the end of their term of office. The payment is meant to provide them with financial support as they transition out of office. However, in Ghana, ex-gratia payments have been a controversial issue, with many arguing that the payments are too high and constitute a drain on the national treasury.

Mahama’s statement on the issue follows a request from the current government for him and other former officials to refund the ex-gratia payments they received. The government has argued that the payments were excessive and that they were made in violation of the country’s constitution.

In response, Mahama has stated that he cannot refund the money because he has already spent it. He has also pointed out that the payments were made in accordance with the law at the time and that he had no role in determining the amount he received.

Mahama’s statement has sparked debate among Ghanaians, with some supporting his position and others arguing that he should refund the money regardless of whether he has spent it or not. Some have also called for a review of the ex-gratia payment system in the country to ensure that it is fair and transparent.

In conclusion, the issue of ex-gratia payments in Ghana continues to be a controversial one, and Mahama’s statement on the matter is likely to generate further debate. However, it is important to note that any resolution to the issue must be in the best interest of the country and its people.