The Paramount Chief of the Dzodze Traditional Area and President of the Dzodze Traditional Council, Torgbui Dzoku V, has called for non-interference in the President’s decision regarding the appointment of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).

According to him, only competent and qualified individuals should be selected to drive development in the various districts.

He urged traditional leaders and community members across the country to allow the President to make appointments based on merit and competence.

Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Torgbui Dzoku V expressed concern over reports that some chiefs and groups were lobbying the President by writing letters to push for the appointment of their preferred candidates.

"I have heard that some chiefs are writing letters to the President, even here in parts of Ketu North, lobbying for a particular candidate. But that is unnecessary. For us in Dzodze, we will not engage in such practices. Instead, we will pray and hope that the President appoints the right and most competent person to serve us," he stated.

Torgbui Dzoku further emphasised that Dzodze, as one of the most populated areas in Ketu North, deserves to have a strong representation in the local governance structure.

However, he stressed that his people would not pressure the President to appoint a candidate from Dzodze but would rather trust the selection process to bring about a capable and dedicated leader.

"Dzodze is larger than many other areas in Ketu North. If our Member of Parliament (MP) is not from Dzodze, then the MCE could be. But we are not lobbying or pushing the President to appoint anyone. Those engaging in such lobbying should stop and allow the President to exercise his constitutional mandate," he added.

Madam Yawa Acolatse, a resident of Dzodze, echoed the Paramount Chief’s stance, emphasizing that using campaign-time ceremonial installations of the President as a chief in some areas should not be used as grounds to demand appointments.

"Some communities claim that since they installed the President as a chief during the campaign, he should appoint someone from their area. But that is not how leadership works. The President must appoint a competent and hardworking individual who aligns with his vision for development, including in Ketu North," she said.

She further called on all citizens to trust the selection process, urging communities to focus on supporting whoever is appointed rather than engaging in unhealthy political lobbying.

Torgbui Dzoku V’s remarks come at a time when discussions around MMDCE appointments are generating debates across the country, with various stakeholders making a case for their preferred candidates.

His call for fairness, non-interference, and merit-based selection aligns with the broader national conversation on ensuring effective governance and local development.