Edward Korbly Doe Adjaho, the Chairman of the Council of State, has urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to take their responsibilities seriously by bringing development to their respective areas.

He said the Government’s Resetting Agenda reminds them all that the business of Government must return to the basics (local level) to ensure grass route development.

Mr. Adjaho made the appeal in his address at an orientation workshop for newly confirmed MMDCEs at the Institute of Local Government Studies at Madina, near Accra.

The week-long programme was opened by President John Dramani Mahama.

This year’s orientation was on the theme “Strengthening Local Governance Through the Reset Agenda.” The theme reflects the core of the ruling National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) 2024 Manifesto, Resetting Ghana: Jobs, Accountability and Prosperity.

Mr. Adjaho called for discipline in service, integrity in leadership and effective resource management at the local level.

He reiterated that for that to happen, the assemblies must function not in form but in substance.

“As MMDCEs, you are the first point of contact between the citizen and the state,” the Council of State Chairman said.

He added: “You are not only implementers of policy; you are the face of government where it matters most.

“Your conduct and your responsiveness will determine how this administration is judged.”

He reminded the MMDCEs that they were assuming office at a time when public confidence in political leadership is under significant strain.

“Across the country, citizens are not only disengaged, but they are also demanding greater accountability from those entrusted with public office,” Mr. Adjaho said.

He noted that these sentiments were reflected in the national conversations surrounding the Constitutional Amendment Bill of 2018, commonly referred to as the MMDCEs’ Election Bill.

He said it took the leadership of President Mahama and the National Executive Committee of the NDC and their MPs for that Bill not to see the day of light.

“Indeed, if that bill had gone through, some of you would not be here today,” he said.

Mr. Adjaho said whether or not public trust was restored would depend in no small measure on the MMDCEs’ actions and inactions.

“This orientation is therefore not routine exercise. It is a moment to reflect on the responsibility you carry as representatives of the President and as stewards of development,” he said.

He explained, “As MMDCEs, your role is pivotal, and we are confident that the direction you will receive today and throughout this week will further empower you to lead at the local level with discipline and vision.”

Mr. Adjaho urged the MMDCEs to learn what they must, ask what they need to ask, but above all, remember that their actions must serve the public good.