Motion for Improved Welfare for Local Councils Tabled in Parliament
Recent reports indicate that Parliament, through the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Nyuma, has presented a motion seeking improved conditions of service for Members of Parliament. Among the issues reportedly under consideration are enhanced welfare, health insurance, and other benefits intended to enable Honourable Members to discharge their constitutional responsibilities more effectively.
‘’We believe that every public servant entrusted with significant national responsibilities deserves fair remuneration and decent working conditions. Members of Parliament play a vital role in our democracy, and there is nothing wrong with seeking improvements that will enhance their effectiveness,’’ said Hon. Nyuma.
Hon. Nyuma noted that their appeal, therefore, is not intended to compare the conditions of Members of Parliament with those of Local Council officials, nothing that nor is it meant to oppose the motion before Parliament. He added that it is a humble and sincere plea to Honourable Members of Parliament to also remember another important pillar of governance that has, for far too long, struggled under extremely difficult conditions; the Local Councils.
‘’As elected representatives in the legislative house, Members of Parliament are uniquely positioned to present and champion the concerns of those who serve at the grassroots level. We respectfully plead with them to look into the conditions and welfare of Chairpersons, Mayors, Councillors and the core staff of Local Councils. The reality is that the conditions under which Local Councils operate are deplorable,’’ the Leader of Government Business stated. He continued: ‘’Chairpersons and Mayors carry enormous responsibilities. They coordinate local development, oversee devolved sectors, supervise service delivery, mobilise local revenue, respond to emergencies, and represent their districts and municipalities on countless occasions. However, their salaries remain far below what their responsibilities demand. Unlike many public officials, they do not have adequate retirement protection, pension arrangements, or comprehensive health insurance schemes to support them and their families, ‘’ Hon. Nyuma explained to MPs.
