By Prince Ahenkorah
The President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has revealed that future Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) may no longer be appointed, but rather elected, in line with growing public demand for greater accountability and inclusiveness in local governance.
Addressing participants at an orientation and training programme organized for MMDCEs on Wednesday, June 18, the President highlighted the possibility of a major constitutional shift that could redefine how MMDCEs are selected.
He noted that the current system of appointing these local government leaders could soon be phased out, depending on the outcome of the work of the Constitution Review Committee.
According to him, one of the key recommendations emerging from the Committee’s extensive nationwide consultations is the proposal for the direct election of MMDCEs by the people.
The recommendation reflects a widespread call from citizens across the country for reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and public participation in governance at the local level. The Committee is expected to present its final report in August 2025.
“MMDCEs, you may be the last batch of MMDCEs appointed,” President Mahama said.
“The National Review Committee is going round and will present its recommendation in August this year, and one of the major items that has come up is the election of the MMDCEs.
There is no doubt that Ghanaians want the MMDCEs elected. Those who succeed you might have to go through elections.”
He further urged the current MMDCEs to play a proactive role in building stronger bonds between government institutions and the people at the grassroots.
He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach involving traditional leaders, religious institutions, and civil society organisations to rebuild trust and confidence in the state’s governance systems.
“I therefore urge you to work with the chiefs and the religious bodies in the district and civil society to restore the social contracts with our people. The legitimacy and authority of the state must be found not only in law but in the experience of our people,” he stressed.