A new nationwide survey conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has revealed strong public backing for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), with a majority of respondents favouring a non-partisan approach.

The poll, carried out between August 15 and 26, 2025, across all 16 regions, found that 67.9 per cent of Ghanaians preferred MMDCEs to be elected rather than appointed.

Of those who supported elections, 63.5 per cent advocated non-partisan polls, reflecting growing public concern about political party interference in local governance.

The findings come against the backdrop of renewed national debate, following President John Dramani Mahama’s call for non-partisan elections of MMDCEs in line with the National Democratic Congress’ 2024 Resetting Ghana manifesto.

A previous attempt to amend Articles 55(3) and 243(1) of the Constitution in 2019, which would have allowed partisan local elections, was abandoned due to lack of consensus.

The IEA survey further revealed that 69.6 per cent of respondents were aware of the current selection process for MMDCEs, which is dominated by presidential appointments.

However, 30.4 per cent admitted they did not know how these officials assume office, underscoring the need for stronger civic education.

“The preference for non-partisan elections suggests that many Ghanaians lack confidence in political parties when it comes to managing affairs at the local level,” the IEA stated in its summary of findings.