MMDCES MUST BE ELECTED – Ahmed Ibrahim

Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister-Designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, has expressed his support for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), stating that now is the perfect time to pursue this long-debated reform.

The idea of electing MMDCEs has been a contentious issue in Ghana for many years, with proponents arguing that it would improve accountability and strengthen local democracy. However, disagreements over whether these elections should be partisan or non-partisan have hindered progress.

During his vetting by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on January 21, 2025, Ahmed Ibrahim highlighted the importance of a non-partisan approach to MMDCE elections, asserting that it would enhance local governance and promote equitable development throughout the nation.

“I do agree that MMDCEs must be elected. But I disagree that it must be done on a partisan basis,” Ibrahim stated. “That is the bone of contention between the two sides of the House. We proposed that MMDCEs be elected on a non-partisan basis, while the other side advocated for a partisan approach.”

He noted that the public is already familiar with both perspectives of the debate and proposed that the outcomes of the recent parliamentary elections demonstrate significant backing for the non-partisan approach.

“We have 184 members in our caucus, and you have 88. It means Ghanaians overwhelmingly agree with electing MMDCEs on a non-partisan basis,” he remarked. “I believe that if there is any time for this reform to happen, it is now.”

Ibrahim’s remarks show his belief that this is the opportune time for such a reform, which could bolster Ghana’s local governance framework and improve democratic engagement at the community level.

Source:NKONKONSA.com