Government Proposes Nationwide Election System for District Chief Executives

Accra: The Government has proposed that all District Chief Executives (DCEs) be elected nationwide under a uniform system, rejecting a phased implementation based on districts' fiscal capacity. The proposal forms part of the Government's response to the recommendations of the Constitution Review Committee on reforms to local government administration. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Dominic Ayine, Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, announced the Government's position on Thursday at the Government Accountability Series in Accra. He stated that the Government had rejected the Committee's recommendation for a phased implementation, which suggested that only fiscally capable districts should initially elect their District Chief Executives. The recommendation proposed that districts not meeting a prescribed financial threshold would continue with appointed chief executives. Dr. Ayine explained that the Government found the phased approach potentially discriminatory, as it could create disparities amo ng districts and lead to unnecessary political consequences. A uniform nationwide system, he argued, would ensure equal political participation and consistent policy implementation across all districts. Under the proposed system, the President would nominate five candidates for each District Chief Executive position, with at least two nominees being women. A vetting committee, including representatives from the Ministry responsible for Local Government, the Public Services Commission, and the Local Government Service, would assess the nominees. The committee would then shortlist three candidates, ensuring at least one woman is included, for election by eligible voters in each district. Dr. Ayine emphasized that the proposed election process would enhance transparency, competitiveness, and gender inclusion. It would also strengthen accountability by ensuring that elected District Chief Executives are directly answerable to the residents they serve. Furthermore, the reforms aim to empower local governance, al lowing residents to elect leaders responsive to the development needs and aspirations of their districts.