Prioritise policies for district assemblies - NALAG urges political parties

The National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG) has called on all political parties to prioritise introducing and implementing policies that will accelerate development within Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). 

“As the country approaches another election cycle, NALAG believes that political parties must consider policies that will empower local governance structures and enhance the delivery of essential services at the grassroots level,” it said.

MMDCEs election

A statement issued in Accra and signed by its General Secretary, Kokro Amankwah said one of the key areas that required urgent attention was the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).

It advocated the election of MMDCEs by the people, rather than appointment.

“This democratic approach will not only enhance accountability but will also ensure that these leaders are directly answerable to the electorate, leading to more responsive and effective local governance,” it stated.

Electoral area funds

The statement commended the Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for his policy on the introduction of an Electoral Area Share of the Common Fund (EASCF).

It said the initiative would ensure that resources were equitably distributed to all electoral areas, empowering assembly members to effectively address the unique needs of their communities.

“By allocating specific funds directly to electoral areas, development projects can be tailored to local priorities, resulting in more impactful and sustainable outcomes,” it said.

It cited the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah who disbursed his MP’s Common Fund to all 18 electoral areas within his constituency, which has accelerated development in those electoral areas.