The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has made a passionate appeal to assembly members in the Akatsi North District to unanimously endorse Bless Kodzo Katamani, the presidential nominee for the District Chief Executive (DCE) position.

He emphasised that any delay in the confirmation process would not only stall the district’s development agenda but also impact the timely disbursement of allowances to assembly members.

Speaking at a crucial gathering of traditional authorities, assembly members, and key stakeholders, Mr. Gunu underscored the significance of collaboration between local government and traditional leaders to accelerate development.

He pointed out that the government's decision to integrate the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development with the Ghana Tourism Authority and Religious Affairs demonstrates a renewed focus on fostering cooperation between the state and traditional rulers.

"This initiative is to restore the honor and respect for our chiefs and traditional leaders. When we come together, we can achieve greater things," he stated.

Call for Swift Approval to Avoid Delays in Development

The Minister warned that any attempt to delay the confirmation of the nominee would have significant consequences for the district’s growth. According to him, the past three months since the inauguration of the current administration have been critical for setting development priorities, and there is no time to waste in moving forward with the local governance structure.

“For development, we are endorsing progress. Any delay means you are holding back the district’s agenda. It means delaying salaries of assembly members and slowing down the pace of development in Akatsi North. Let’s endorse the nominee now so that we can catch up with the rest of Ghana,” Mr. Gunu urged.

He stressed that a swift endorsement of the 49-year-old Bless Kodzo Katamani would allow the district to reset its developmental trajectory and align with the broader national agenda.

Legal Framework Governing DCE Appointments

The Presiding Member of the Akatsi North Assembly, Patrick Ahiabu, took the opportunity to clarify the legal framework governing the appointment of a District Chief Executive. He cited the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, specifically Article 243, and the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), along with its amendment (Act 940).

According to these legal provisions, the President appoints a DCE, but the nominee must receive the approval of at least two-thirds of the assembly members present and voting at the confirmation meeting. This approval process ensures that the nominee has the backing of local representatives, making governance more participatory and inclusive.

"The standing orders of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) further reinforce these requirements. Part Three, Paragraph 14, Sub-paragraphs 1 and 2, clearly states that each district shall have a DCE appointed by the President, subject to the approval of assembly members," Ahiabu explained.

MP Urges Assembly Members to Prioritize District’s Development

Adding his voice to the call for endorsement, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Akatsi North, Peter Nortsu Kotoe, admonished assembly members to ensure a smooth and successful confirmation process. He emphasized that a fully constituted local government administration would facilitate the continuation of key development projects in the district.

“We all want progress for Akatsi North. Development projects must continue without hindrance. I urge you, our honorable assembly members, to approve the President’s nominee so that we can move forward,” he urged.

The Bigger Picture: A District in Need of Leadership

Akatsi North, like many districts across Ghana, relies on a well-structured and effective local government administration to drive development. With challenges such as road infrastructure deficits, inadequate educational facilities, health service gaps, and economic opportunities for the youth, the role of a DCE is critical in coordinating government interventions and projects.

The nomination of Bless Kodzo Katamani comes at a time when the district is looking to reset its development priorities and enhance governance efficiency. His confirmation would enable him to assume full responsibilities, ensuring that projects in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and social welfare are implemented effectively.

Conclusion: A Critical Moment for Akatsi North

The appeal by the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, the Presiding Member, Patrick Ahiabu, and the MP, Peter Nortsu Kotoe, underscores the urgency of the situation. Their collective message is clear: Akatsi North cannot afford delays in leadership and governance.

As the assembly members prepare to cast their votes on the confirmation of Bless Kodzo Katamani, all eyes will be on their decision and its impact on the district’s future. The outcome will determine whether the district moves forward with its development agenda or experiences further delays in governance and project implementation.

For the people of Akatsi North, the stakes are high, and the call for progress has never been louder.