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CR Minister advocates for “Yes” votes in December 17th referendum

The Central Regional Minister, Mr Kwamena Duncan has charged Ghanaians to vote “Yes” in the upcoming December 17th referendum, saying, that a vote in that direction will help promote voter participation and interest in elections and governance at the local level.

Date Created : 11/29/2019 3:39:34 AM : Story Author : Emmanuel Frimpong Mensah/Ghanadistricts.com

According to him, a “Yes” vote will among other things; promote accountability, trust and ensure a better understanding of multi-party democracy; promote tolerance and coexistence of political parties at the local level and lead to better multi-party democracy; and also compel political parties to groom and identify credible, capable and competent persons for elections to the District Assemblies.

The Minister made these pronouncements when speaking at the maiden “Meet the Press” event at Potsin in the Gomoa East District. The “Meet the Press” was aimed at publicizing the NPP-government's achievements to various stakeholders as means of promoting accountability, transparency and good governance.

Addressing a question regarding the December 17th referendum, Mr Duncan explained that, the referendum will enable citizens to decide if an entrenched clause in the 1992 Constitution, Article 55(3), needs to be amended to permit political parties in Ghana to participate in local government election.

He therefore chastised the opposition NDC party for their advocacy for Ghanaians to vote against a decision that will give power to these same electorates to elect their own Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCE).

He appealed to Chiefs, opinion leaders and other appropriate authorities to intensify education regarding the referendum and its benefits to the Ghanaian populace.

On his part, District Chief Executive of the area, Solomon Darko Quarm, also added his voice to the call by appealing to all and sundry to support this good course by voting “Yes” in the upcoming referendum.

He said Akufo-Addo led administration believes in giving power to the people to elect their own leaders to be accountable to them, adding that onus now lies with Ghanaians to either accept or reject that challenge.

Meanwhile, the DCE in a power point presentation also showcased some programmes, initiatives achieved so far since he took office.

The achievements were categorized in sectors such as education, health, roads, water and sanitation, government flagship programmes among others.