Mrs. Clara Kowlaga Beeri Kasser-Tee, Vice Board Chairperson of the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development and a law lecturer at the University of Ghana Law School has underscored the importance of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) and its assets.
In a compelling message, the renowned private legal practitioner pointed out that SSNIT’s funds are not just numbers on a balance sheet, but are the lifeline for millions of Ghanaians on retirement.
Mrs. Kasser-Tee indicated that SSNIT is pivotal to the security of every Ghanaian pension, adding that SSNIT manages the hard-earned contributions of workers across the nation, investing these funds to generate returns that will support workers in their retirement years.
“Here is why ‘you’ need to be interested in SSNIT and its assets. SSNIT is key to your pensions and my pensions. Its funds are your and my funds – through our contributions and the investment returns from same. Yes, our hard-earned hustled funds, no matter how individually small they may be, make up SSNIT funds”.
Mrs. Clara Kowlaga Beeri Kasser-Tee, Vice Board Chair Ghana Centre for Democratic Development and law lecturer at the University of Ghana Law School
According to her, if in the unluckiest event, SSNIT loses its funds, the most aged would be affected severely, further asserting that mismanagement or losses within SSNIT directly impact the financial well-being of future retirees.
The Importance of Personal Responsibility
In a society where familial support is often relied upon during old age, Mrs. Kasser-Tee challenged this norm by advocating for financial independence.
She painted a realistic picture of the future, where children might offer symbolic gestures of care, such as flowers in a hospital, rather than taking on their parents’ financial burdens.
Mrs. Kasser-Tee urged individuals to take a proactive stance in securing their financial futures, rather than depending on their children.
“If you cannot leave an inheritance for your children, do not leave them burdens too and the obligation to take care of you”, she admonished, underscoring the necessity of planning for one’s old age and pension.
Accountability and Integrity in Public Office
One of the most critical points raised by Mrs. Kasser-Tee is the persistent issue of SSNIT’s asset divestment across political regimes.
She pointed out that over the years, SSNIT has divested its assets for various reasons, yet no one has resigned or been held accountable for failures in the prudent asset management of SSNIT.
According to her, the political dynamics of defending or criticizing these transfers depending on the party in power further complicate the issue, asserting that such a cycle of mismanagement and lack of accountability must end.
A Call for Competence and Accountability
The Vice Board Chairperson of the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development, Mrs. Kasser-Tee called for a fundamental shift in the management of public funds and assets.
She insisted that individuals should not accept appointments to manage public resources if they are not competent to do so.
Additionally, Mrs. Kasser-Tee urged those who realize they cannot fulfill their duties effectively to step aside and allow capable individuals to take over.
“We need to stop using public office or public funds to acquire assets only so that we can transfer it into private hands for any reason”, she stressed.
Mrs. Kasser-Tee, in a fervent call to action, appealed to all Ghanaians to prioritize the country’s collective well-being over partisan interests.
She emphasized that the goal should be to build a country that benefits everyone, regardless of political leanings, underscoring the significance of unity and common purpose protecting the interest of the country.
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