Former National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary aspirant Stephen Atubiga has raised concerns over the alleged poor welfare and treatment of 158 NDC grassroots members and National Security operatives stationed at the Presidency.
In a statement directed at the Head of Security at the Presidency, Col. Abdulie, and his deputy, Lt. Adonteng, Atubiga alleged that some of the operatives were being arbitrarily removed from duty and left without work for several months.
According to him, the operatives’ major concern is that their identification cards are allegedly taken from them over minor issues, after which they are instructed to go home and wait to be called back.
Atubiga claimed that some of the affected operatives had remained at home for more than three months without work, describing the situation as a serious welfare concern.
He also questioned the level of remuneration being received by the operatives, saying they are paid GH¢1,000 monthly, with an additional GH¢1,200 reportedly provided through the Chief of Staff, bringing their alleged total monthly take-home pay to GH¢2,200.
He appealed to President John Mahama to consider increasing their remuneration, arguing that the amount was inadequate for operatives with families to support.
Atubiga further alleged that the security personnel had not been adequately engaged by the leadership of the security unit to discuss their welfare and challenges.
He claimed that some were struggling to report to work because they could not afford transportation, while also alleging that no proper effort had been made to introduce the operatives to leadership at the Presidency or get to know them individually.
“These 158 comrades are grassroots and footsoldiers reaping what they have sown. They have no barracks to go to in opposition but back to the party grounds,” Atubiga said.
He called for what he described as dignified treatment for the operatives and urged the leadership at the Presidency to address their concerns.
Atubiga cautioned that continued frustration among the operatives could create tension if their concerns were not addressed.
He, however, said he was keeping some of the alleged incidents of inhumane treatment internal for the time being, while appealing to the relevant authorities to intervene.
The allegations have not been independently verified.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Mavis Fantevi
