Decentralization Secretariat Director Confirms Non-Payment of Salaries for Boycotting APC Officials

Decentralization Secretariat Director Confirms Non-Payment of Salaries for Boycotting APC Officials

Alex Bhonapha, Director of the Decentralization Secretariat, has confirmed that APC councillors, mayors, and chairpersons will be ineligible for their April remuneration should their current boycott of local council proceedings persist.

During an appearance on Truth Media, Mr. Bhonapha clarified that eligibility for payment is contingent upon the fulfillment of official duties by the councillors. He emphasized that withholding salaries for non-performance is a necessary measure, stating that receipt of public funds without active service constitutes an "abuse of office."

Furthermore, Mr. Bhonapha indicated that elected officials who fail to resume their council responsibilities within a three-month period face the potential declaration of vacancies for their respective positions.

These statements underscore the government’s commitment to ensuring public officials are held accountable for their mandates. The Secretariat is using the link between active service, remuneration, and tenure to reinforce the statutory obligations of holding public office.

The situation has prompted widespread discussion across political and social sectors, with varying interpretations of the implications for the councillors and the Secretariat's official guidance.

Stakeholders are closely monitoring the matter as the mandated deadline for the resumption of council duties approaches.