In a decisive move aimed at restructuring the nation’s local governance system, President John Mahama has revoked the appointments of all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and Assembly Members across the country. This directive, communicated through a letter from the Office of the President, takes immediate effect.
The announcement, signed by Callistus Mahama, Ph.D., Secretary to the President, cited the powers vested in the President under the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), as amended by the Local Governance (Amendment) Act, 2017 (Act 940). The revocation affects both Chief Executives and Assembly Members who were appointed pursuant to the relevant provisions of the Act.
“In the interim, the respective Coordinating Directors of the various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are directed to assume responsibility as acting Chief Executives until substantive appointments are duly made,” the letter stated.
The directive marks a significant shake-up in local governance, signaling the President’s commitment to implementing reforms within the decentralization framework. The reasons for the sweeping dismissal of MMDCEs and Assembly Members have not been explicitly outlined, but analysts speculate that the decision may be part of efforts to inject new leadership and direction at the grassroots level.
This action has already sparked discussions among political analysts and stakeholders in the local governance system, with many wondering how the changes will affect development initiatives and ongoing projects across the country.
The letter was copied to the Vice President and the Chief of Staff, underscoring the importance of the directive.
As the nation awaits the appointment of new MMDCEs and Assembly Members, attention will be focused on the impact of this decision on governance and service delivery at the local level.
Background
The Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), empowers the President to appoint and revoke the appointments of MMDCEs and other key local governance actors. This provision is intended to ensure accountability and responsiveness in the governance system.
Observers will be keen to see how the transition period, with Coordinating Directors serving as acting Chief Executives, will be managed to prevent disruptions to the administrative and developmental activities of the affected assemblies.
