Accra: Mr. Alfred Asiedu Adjei, the President of the National Association of Local Government Association of Ghana (NALAG), has called on Assembly Members to ensure that resources allocated to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are effectively used for meaningful development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Adjei emphasized the need for accountability alongside the principle of 'funds must follow functions' during a statement released at the conclusion of a two-day workshop in Kumasi. The event was organized by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, the Institute of Local Government Studies, and NALAG. It gathered assembly members, presiding members, metropolitan, municipal and district chief executives, coordinating directors, and other stakeholders in local governance.
Mr. Adjei encouraged Assembly Members to actively engage with the financial and developmental activities of their assemblies, rather than limiting their roles to participating in meetings and approving documents. He stressed the importance of understanding their assembly's budget, annual action plan, allocations, releases, and projects. The NALAG President urged them to monitor project implementation to ensure they deliver value to residents, advising them to maintain an 'eagle eye' on financial documents and project allocations.
He highlighted that assembly members have a responsibility to question delays or misuse of resources through appropriate channels. Citing 2026 allocation figures, Mr. Adjei noted that the MMDAs Direct Allocation stood at approximately GHS7.934 billion, which is about 90.47 percent of the total fund. He questioned the tangible benefits the allocations have delivered, such as improved roads, schools, sanitation facilities, health services, and economic opportunities.
Mr. Adjei reminded stakeholders that public funds belong to the people and not to officials or political entities. He stressed that every cedi must be accounted for and urged assembly members not to let political affiliations or personal relationships hinder their duties. He emphasized that the needs of citizens should be prioritized over political differences, as issues like poor infrastructure and sanitation affect all constituents.
The NALAG President concluded by calling on stakeholders to enhance their oversight responsibilities, ensuring that public funds entrusted to MMDAs are invested into tangible development for the people.