During Ghana’s 68th independence anniversary, NALAG President Alfred Asiedu Adjei emphasized the need for urgent reforms to bolster local governance. He highlighted the importance of empowering MMDAs and urged Assembly Members to prioritize community service over politics. Additionally, he called upon national leaders to enhance local governance through autonomy and accountability measures.
As Ghana commemorates its 68th independence anniversary, Alfred Asiedu Adjei, President of the National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG), has called for significant reforms to enhance local governance. He underscored the necessity for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to evaluate and adjust their strategies to improve service delivery and facilitate meaningful decentralization.
Honorable Asiedu Adjei pointed out that despite MMDAs being central to Ghana’s governance, various challenges impede their effectiveness. He posed essential questions regarding the empowerment of local authorities, the fulfillment of community needs by MMDAs, and the systemic inefficiencies that hinder progress. He stated, “These critical questions must guide every MMDA in assessing its performance and developing strategies for improvement.”
Furthermore, the President urged Assembly Members to prioritize community service over political affiliations, emphasizing that local assemblies should operate as development-focused institutions rather than political entities. He implored, “I urge all Assembly Members to uphold the integrity of their mandate by prioritizing development over party affiliations.”
In addition, Hon. Asiedu Adjei directed his appeal to national leadership, advocating for decisive actions to strengthen local governance. He called for granting MMDAs financial and administrative autonomy, timely transfers of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), and the establishment of accountability frameworks for resource management. He affirmed, “The national leadership must depoliticize local governance and empower MMDAs to function independently.”
Concluding his address, Hon. Asiedu Adjei articulated that Ghana’s 68th independence celebration should serve as a catalyst for profound changes in local governance. He urged stakeholders to recommit to effective governance, stating, “Our assemblies must work, our communities must thrive, and our governance must be responsive to the aspirations of the people.”
In summary, Alfred Asiedu Adjei, President of NALAG, has emphatically called for reforms to strengthen local governance in Ghana during the country’s 68th independence celebrations. He highlighted the vital role of MMDAs and urged Assembly Members to focus on community development over political considerations. Furthermore, he appealed to national leaders to enhance the autonomy and effectiveness of local governance structures, advocating for a more responsive and responsible governance system. The call for action signifies a crucial moment for the future of decentralization in Ghana.
Original Source: www.gbcghanaonline.com
