Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister-Designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, has called for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), emphasizing the need for a non-partisan approach to ensure fairness and enhance local governance.
Speaking at his vetting before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, Ibrahim stressed that the time is ripe for this long-debated reform, which could deepen democracy and improve accountability at the grassroots level.
“I agree that MMDCEs must be elected, but I disagree that it must be on a partisan basis,” he said. “This has been the sticking point between the two sides of the House.”
Ibrahim pointed to public opinion and recent electoral results as evidence of strong support for a non-partisan model, stating, “Ghanaians overwhelmingly agree with electing MMDCEs on a non-partisan basis. If there’s ever been a time for this reform, it is now.”