“I do agree that MMDCEs must be elected” – Ahmed Ibrahim

Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister-Designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, has urged the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), stating that this is the best time to put the reform into effect.

Proponents of electing MMDCEs contend that doing so would increase accountability and strengthen democracy at the local level, a position that has been debated for years in Ghana.

Disagreements over whether the elections ought to be partisan or non-partisan, however, have impeded advancement.

A nonpartisan approach to MMDCE elections is crucial, Ahmed Ibrahim emphasized during his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, claiming that it will improve local administration and advance equitable development.

“I do agree that MMDCEs must be elected. But I disagree that it must be done on a partisan basis,” he 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.”

Ahmed Ibrahim indicated that the results of recent parliamentary elections show widespread support for the non-partisan model, pointing out that the public has already been exposed to both viewpoints.

“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 said. “I believe that if there is any time for this reform to happen, it is now” he added.

Source: Ghanatodayonline.com