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NALAG rekindles calls for election of MMDCEs

The National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG) has rekindled calls for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across the country.

Date Created : 10/15/2024 : Story Author : Ghanadistricts.com

According to the Association, this democratic approach will not only enhance accountability but will also ensure that these leaders are directly answerable to the electorate, leading to more responsive and effective local governance.

In a press statement signed and issued by the Association, its general secretary, Mr Kokro Amankwah, said NALAG was still strongly advocating for the election of MMDCEs by the people, rather than their appointment.

NALAG is again calling on all political parties to prioritize the introduction and implementation of policies that will accelerate development within our Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

“As the country approaches another election cycle, NALAG believes that it is crucial for political parties to consider policies that will empower local governance structures and enhance the delivery of essential services at the grassroots level”, the statement added.

The Association also seized the opportunity to commend the Vice President, H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his policy on introduction of an Electoral Area Share of the Common Fund (EASCF).

The initiative, the association says, will ensure that resources are equitably distributed to all electoral areas, empowering Assembly Members to effectively address the unique needs of their communities.

The initiative, NALAG added, will ensure the allocation of specific funds directly to electoral areas to enhance development projects that can be tailored to local priorities which will result in more impactful and sustainable outcomes.

The Association commended the Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda, Hon. Alexander Akwasi Acquah, who disbursed his MP’s Common Fund to all 18 electoral areas within his constituency, which has accelerated development in these electoral areas.

Meanwhile, NALAG also underscored the need for the timely release of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), adding that delays in the disbursement of these funds hinder the ability of MMDAs to carry out essential developmental projects.

It is therefore urging the government to ensure that the DACF is released promptly and in full, enabling assemblies to plan and execute projects that will significantly improve the lives of the people.

The Association says it remains committed to advocating for policies that will empower local governments and drive the development of our communities. We call on all political parties to heed this call and include these proposals in their manifestos as we work together to build a better Ghana for all.