The Office of the President and the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development have announced the inauguration of all the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in the country today, Monday, February 12 2024.
The Ministry of Local Governance, Decentralization, and Rural Development in a statement signed by its Head of Public Unit, Matilda Tettey stated that the event marks a crucial step in promoting participatory decision-making at the local level, which aligns with the constitutional mandate outlined in Article 35 Clause 6 (d) of the 1992 Constitution.
According to the statement, the inauguration ceremony will also witness the swearing-in of newly elected and appointed members of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies following the conduct of district-level elections last year.
“The Office of the President and the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development are pleased to announce to the general public the upcoming inauguration of the District Assemblies scheduled, for the 12th February of 2024”.
Matilda Tettey
The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development in its statement further noted that the inauguration of the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in the country by the government showcases the commitment of the government to deepen local governance structures in the country.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development indicated that the inauguration ceremony is aimed at fulfilling the constitutional obligation to afford citizens ample opportunities to actively participate in decision-making processes at all levels of government.
Emphasizing the importance of community involvement, the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development in its statement stated that Section 16(10) of the Local Governance Act, 2016, Act 936 underscores the responsibilities of Assembly Members to among many things maintain close contact with their electoral areas, consult the public on pertinent issues to be discussed in the District Assembly, collate their views, opinions, and proposals, and actively participate in communal and development activities in their respective localities.
According to the statement, such measures are designed to enhance citizen engagement and ensure that decisions made at the local level are reflective of the needs and aspirations of the communities.
Ghanaians Urged To Participate In The Works Of District Assemblies
Moreover, the statement issued by the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development encouraged the general public to actively participate in the workings of the District Assemblies and engage with their Assembly members following the inauguration.
The statement argued that the collective involvement of stakeholders is very crucial for fostering a robust local governance system that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within each community in the country.
The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development further emphasized that the inauguration of the District Assemblies symbolizes a pivotal moment in Ghana’s governance landscape, demonstrating the government’s dedication to decentralized decision-making and inclusive governance.
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