Former Municipal Chief Executive of Asokore Mampong and a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hon Alidu Seidu, has asserted that the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) is the best option to provide them with security in office.
The NPP government, between 2018 and 2019, embarked on the amendment of Article 55(3) to enable multiparty participation in the districts for the election of MMDCEs. This was an attempt to reform the local governance system and devolve more power and resources to the local communities.
More than two-thirds (69%) of Ghanaians “strongly agree” or “agree” that MMDCEs should be elected by voters in the local authority area.
However, after the national referendum was slated for December 17, 2019, this amendment was curtailed due to a lack of proper consensus at both the political and citizen level to have MMDCEs elected into office by the people.
In a panel discussion on the Oyerepa Breakfast Show, it was explained that because MMDCEs are appointed by the President and can be relieved of their position at any time he deems fit, there is no guarantee to the tenure of office.
“The MCE will find possible ways to generate its own funds for development rather than waiting on the government for release of funds. But if he is voted for, he can be held accountable to his people,” he said.
Adding that Ghana’s major challenge in decentralization and local governance is the appointment of MMDCEs instead of direct elections by the local people, which would enhance accountability to the people.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to making MMDCE positions elective in order to eliminate the contentious nomination-and-approval process and improve transparency, which would enhance accountability at the local level.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com/Freduah Agyemang Derrick
