President John Dramani Mahama has ordered all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to file their asset declarations by July 15, in a renewed push for public sector accountability and transparency.

The directive was issued during a Wednesday orientation session for MMDCEs, where Mahama underscored their legal obligation under Ghanaian law to disclose personal assets upon assuming office.

“In the meantime, I wish to remind you that you are among the office holders who are required to declare your assets,” Mahama told attendees. “By July 15th, I expect all of you to have complied.”

The president also signaled a potential shift in how local executives are selected. Citing ongoing constitutional review efforts, Mahama said one of the most prominent proposals involves transitioning from presidential appointments to direct elections for MMDCEs.

“You may be the last batch of MMDCEs appointed,” he told officials. “There is no doubt that Ghanaians want the MMDCEs elected.”

A final report from the National Review Committee is expected in August.

Mr. Mahama further pressed local authorities to manage public funds responsibly, highlighting that unprecedented levels of financing have been disbursed through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). According to the president, 80% of the DACF now goes directly to local governments, making transparency in expenditures essential.

“These funds must be used judiciously and in the interest of the people,” Mahama said. “They are not for fulfilling political obligations, but for delivering on our social contract.”

Source:TheDotNews