By Vicent Emong
KUMI — Newly sworn-in Kumi Municipality Mayor-elect John Bosco Emenyat has raised concern over the persistent delays in the payment of ex gratia allowances to councilors, warning that the situation is creating tension and weakening cooperation between political leaders and technical staff within the municipality.
Speaking shortly after taking oath of office, Emenyat said councilors continue to face financial hardships because of delayed payments, yet they play a critical role in representing communities and supporting service delivery.
According to the mayor-elect, many councilors are increasingly frustrated by the slow release of their allowances, making it difficult for them to effectively execute their duties.
“Sometimes we convince councilors to attend council sessions, but always the technical staff take long to pay them,” Emenyat said while addressing leaders and residents after the swearing-in ceremony.
He explained that ex gratia payments are not simply allowances, but an important source of support that enables councilors to facilitate movements within their wards, carry out community activities, and meet family obligations.
“Many councilors use this money to pay school fees for their children, support their families, and move around while serving the people,” he noted.
Emenyat warned that continued delays in payment risk creating unnecessary misunderstandings between the political leadership and technical staff within the municipality.
The mayor-elect appealed to the town clerk and responsible authorities to prioritize timely payments to councilors in order to improve morale and strengthen working relations.
“If leaders are not facilitated in time, it affects their morale and even council operations. We need cooperation between the technical wing and political leaders,” he emphasized.
He further stressed the importance of unity, fairness, and teamwork in ensuring effective service delivery across Kumi Municipality.
According to Emenyat, cooperation between elected leaders and technical officers is essential for the successful implementation of government programs and municipal development projects.
“Unity and cooperation can only be achieved if all sides are treated fairly and with respect,” he said.
The mayor-elect also encouraged councilors to remain committed to serving their communities despite the existing challenges.
He urged leaders to focus on initiatives that improve the livelihoods of residents, noting that people expect development, accountability, and effective representation from their elected officials.
“The people of Kumi expect us to deliver services and improve their welfare. We must remain focused on development and community transformation,” he added.
Emenyat concluded by calling upon all municipal officials to work together in the spirit of transparency, accountability, and mutual respect for the progress of Kumi Municipality.
The remarks come at a time when several local government leaders across the country have continued to raise concerns about delays in facilitation and operational funding, which they say affects service delivery and leadership effectiveness at the grassroots level.
