The Vice President of Ghana is one of the highest-ranking officials in the country, responsible for assisting the President in government. This prestigious position carries substantial financial incentives and advantages, which are determined by the Presidential Emoluments Committee in accordance with Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution.

How Much Is the Vice President Paid?

The Vice President's actual monthly pay is not publicly revealed. However, historical data does provide some information. According to sources, the Vice President's remuneration corresponds to that of a Cabinet Minister.

In 2016, Cabinet Ministers received around GHS 22,000 per month. Given inflation and periodic wage evaluations, it's logical to conclude that the current salary is much greater. This change reflects the rising cost of living and the importance of the Vice President's responsibilities.

Additional Allowances and Benefits.

Aside from the base salary, the Vice President is eligible for a variety of allowances and benefits to ensure that official obligations are carried out smoothly. These benefits include:

Housing & Accommodation

The state offers an official house for the Vice President. This ensures that the Vice President and their family live in a safe, comfortable location conducive to holding official occasions.

Transportation

The Vice President is entitled to official transportation, which includes drivers and maintenance services. This offers dependable and secure transportation for both official and personal purposes.

Security

Dedicated security officers are assigned to the Vice President, ensuring his personal protection at all times.

Medical Care

The Vice President and their immediate family members receive comprehensive healthcare coverage, ensuring that their well-being is paramount.

Retirement Benefits

After leaving office, the Vice President is eligible for retirement benefits. This may include:

- A pension based on their time in office.

- Continued access to state-provided security.

- Other privileges recommended by the Emoluments Committee.

These benefits aim to reflect the Vice President’s contributions to national service and provide support in retirement.

The remuneration of public officials, especially the Vice President, frequently sparks public debate in Ghana. Citizens regularly express worry about economic issues and salary discrepancies in the public sector.

A major example came in 2021, when proposed pay for the First and Second Ladies provoked much criticism. The controversy prompted legal challenges and, ultimately, the proposal's removal.

Salary and benefit discussions underscore the value of transparency in governance. While the Vice President plays an important function, achieving a balance between fair compensation and public accountability is critical to preserving trust.

The privileges and financial rewards that come with the Vice President job highlight the role's major duties. However, they serve as a reminder of the importance of ongoing debate between the government and public about equitable resource distribution.