Accra: Mr Alfred Asiedu Adjei, the President of the National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG), has called upon Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to implement visible development initiatives and provide accountable leadership. He highlighted the risk of losing public confidence if local government officials fail to meet the expectations of the public.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Adjei made these remarks in a statement during the Ashanti Regional Conference of Presiding Members in Kumasi. He emphasized that citizens demand tangible improvements in their communities rather than promises and political rhetoric. "Local governance is changing across the world. Citizens are no longer satisfied with promises alone. They want results," he stated.
He further noted that citizens desire leaders who are attentive and transparent with public resources, and they expect Assemblies to be responsive to their needs. Speaking on the theme, 'Leading Change at the Grassroots: The Role of Presiding Members,' Mr Adjei encouraged Presiding Members to ensure Assembly decisions lead to improvements in infrastructure, sanitation, healthcare, education, employment, and flood control.
The NALAG President stressed that the credibility of local government institutions now depends on their ability to address everyday challenges faced by citizens. "Communities do not remember leaders for the offices they occupied. They remember them for the problems they solved," he pointed out.
Mr Adjei urged Presiding Members to go beyond merely presiding over meetings and instead provide leadership that fosters consensus, accountability, and development. He emphasized that Assembly committees must function effectively, decisions should be fair and serve the public interest, and resolutions should yield measurable benefits for local communities.
He also called for increased transparency in managing public resources, highlighting the need for Assemblies to enhance citizen participation, strengthen financial accountability, and openly report on public funds to restore public trust.
Looking ahead, Mr Adjei advocated for the adoption of digital technology, data-driven planning, and improved internal revenue generation to boost service delivery. He urged Assemblies to incorporate environmental sustainability, disaster preparedness, and inclusive governance, ensuring representation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
Mr Adjei reaffirmed NALAG's commitment to enhancing the welfare of Assembly and Presiding Members through advocacy for timely payment of allowances, improved logistics, capacity building, and better working conditions. He asserted that strengthening the capacity and welfare of local government officials is crucial for building institutions capable of delivering effective governance.
In conclusion, Mr Adjei reminded conference participants that the success of Ghana's national development hinges on the performance of its local governments. "When our Assemblies succeed, our districts succeed. When our districts succeed, our regions succeed. And when our regions succeed, Ghana succeeds," he stated.