Accra: Mr Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Central Regional Minister, has called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to set aside partisan politics and work together for developmental progress. He emphasized that MMDAs play a crucial role in driving development and should always operate with efficiency and dedication.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister highlighted the need for punctuality and commitment, warning that lateness and early departures from work undermine the government's development efforts. This message was conveyed during his tour of the Agona West Municipality and Agona East District, part of his regional tour aimed at assessing work conditions and fostering collaboration with local authorities.
During his visits, Mr Eduamoah met with traditional authorities and assembly members to discuss development strategies. He expressed dissatisfaction with the Internal Audit Departments of MMDAs, citing their ineffectiveness in preventing mismanagement and breaches observed in Public Account Committee hearings. He asserted that these departments merely benefit certain staff without improving assembly efficiency.
On the subject of physical development, the Minister stressed that building permits should not be issued without the knowledge of MMDCEs, urging for better-equipped Physical Planning Departments. He also encouraged the Budget Department to collaborate with the Physical Planning Department to enhance revenue for developmental projects.
Mr Eric Gyamfi Odoom, the Municipal Chief Executive for Agona West, highlighted challenges such as inadequate office space and accommodation for staff, seeking the Minister's intervention. Additionally, Mr Saeed Bashiru, the Municipal Finance Officer, requested the Minister's support in regulating commercial motorbike operations.
In discussions with local chiefs, Mr Eduamoah explained the merger of the Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs with Local Government under President John Mahama, aimed at increasing traditional authorities' involvement in governance. Okofo Nyakrom Eku X, the Omanhene of Agona Nyakrom, urged the government to restore the powers of chiefs to enhance their governance role.
The Omanhene also appealed for the completion of the Agona Nyakrom police station, which has been pending since 2016. Nana Kojo Amoakwa V, the Krontihene of Agona Nyakrom, called on the government to intensify efforts against illegal mining, acknowledging steps taken but insisting more action is needed. As chiefs, they remain committed to protecting water bodies from pollution.