Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has issued a stern warning to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), stating that anyone who does not demonstrate effective performance risks dismissal by March 31, 2026.
Speaking during a familiarisation visit to the Bono Regional House of Chiefs (BRHC) in Sunyani last Monday, Mr. Ibrahim emphasised that MMDCEs are expected to actively implement government policies and programmes at the district level. He highlighted initiatives such as the 24-hour economy as key tools to drive national development and improve citizens’ living standards.
The minister urged district executives to focus on sanitation and to prioritise critical infrastructure projects, including CHPS compounds, school buildings, and agricultural initiatives. He cautioned against a passive approach, telling MMDCEs, “Don’t always sit in your office. If you fail to perform your duties effectively, by March 31, 2026, you will be sacked.”
Mr. Ibrahim explained that these dismissals would be based on performance assessments conducted by the Social Accountability Committee (SAC), which also considers reports from the government’s accountability committee. He noted that President John Dramani Mahama has consistently reminded ministers and appointees of the importance of dedication to duty.
“All 60 ministers are working round the clock. The President himself hardly sleeps. We were given a mandate to work. As an MMDCE, are you implementing government policies?” he asked.
On funding, the minister reassured district executives that the entire 2025 District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) had already been released, leaving no room for complaints about inadequate resources. He further noted that the three per cent allocation for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) had been paid and that the allocation would be increased to five per cent this year.
An eight-member committee, chaired by NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu-Nketiah, has also been set up to review applications from Municipal and District Assemblies seeking elevation. Mr. Ibrahim stressed that ministries, government appointees, and MMDCEs will soon be held accountable under the government’s transparency exercise, urging district executives to ensure integrity to avoid sanctions.
During the event, the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, congratulated Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on his re-election as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer. He also praised other contestants, including former MPs Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former party General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, for their performances in the primary.
