President John Mahama has issued a directive to guide the appointment process for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across the country.
The directive, communicated by the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, mandates the establishment of Regional Vetting Committees to ensure a transparent, balanced, and merit-based selection of candidates.
The directive outlines a comprehensive structure for the vetting process.
Each Regional Vetting Committee is to include key regional party figures, such as the Regional Chairman, Regional Secretary, Regional Organizer, representatives from the council of elders, former appointees, the women’s wing, the parliamentary caucus, and two constituency executives who are not applicants for the MMDCE position. Other regional executives may participate as observers, ensuring wide representation and inclusivity.
The guidelines for vetting MMDCE applicants emphasize four critical criteria. First, all applicants must provide verifiable proof of their membership in the NDC. Second, they must meet the constitutional eligibility criteria for Members of Parliament as outlined in Article 94(3)(c) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
Third, the directive highlights the importance of maintaining customary, geographical, and ethnic balance in the selection process.
“Due consideration must be given to the customary, geographical, and ethnic composition of each district to ensure a balanced distribution of political power and influence,” the directive stated.
This approach aims to foster unity within districts and rally citizens around common developmental goals.
Finally, the competence and relevant experience of applicants are to be critically assessed to ensure that those selected can manage the complexities of their roles effectively.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey emphasized the importance of strict adherence to the guidelines and full cooperation from all committee members to uphold the integrity of the process.
“Your full cooperation and strict adherence to this directive are highly anticipated and appreciated,” he noted.
This initiative underscores President Mahama’s commitment to fostering an equitable and competent leadership structure at the local level, ensuring that the appointments reflect both the party’s values and the developmental needs of the districts.
