The Local Government Minister nominee, Ahmed Ibrahim, says there is going to be a significant shift in the leadership approach at the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

Speaking during his vetting on Tuesday, January 21, he stressed the need for a proactive and self-reliant mindset among MMDCEs, asserting that those unable to maintain their offices have no business holding their positions.

“There’s going to be a radical shift of mindset at the various MMDAs, no matter the cost. I can’t build a whole district for you and you cannot be given one building, and within that district jurisdiction, claim you cannot maintain that one house. I totally disagree. If you are a District Chief Executive and you are unable to repair your own office, then you have no business sitting there,” he said firmly.

Mr Ibrahim called for a redefinition of the role of MMDCEs, emphasising their responsibility as agents of local economic development rather than protocol officers.

He criticised a culture of dependency, where DCEs wait for funds from Accra instead of finding innovative ways to address local challenges.

To address these issues, Mr Ibrahim proposed the creation of a common platform that would bring together former Local Government Ministers, Chief Directors, and other experienced officials. The aim, he explained, would be to foster administrative continuity and ensure that uncompleted initiatives from previous administrations are revisited and advanced.

“Many former ministers and chief directors had good ideas but couldn’t complete them during their tenure. We will bring all these individuals together in an informal way to share insights and ensure the nation benefits from their experiences. This collaborative approach will promote fruitful democratic dividends,” he stated.