Make decentralisation meaningful and assemblies accountable – Mahama charges Ayariga

President John Dramani Mahama implored the newly appointed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, to transform Ghana's decentralisation model to benefit the public. Addressing Ayariga during his inauguration ceremony on Saturday, August 29, the President emphasized the need for assemblies to be accountable, financially responsible and responsive to the demands of their communities.

"Make decentralisation meaningful to our citizens," President Mahama urged. "Metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies must become more accountable, financially disciplined and responsive to the needs of the communities they serve."

Mahama highlighted that local government institutions are the primary touchpoints where citizens engage with the state. He stressed that communities anticipate their assemblies to deliver functional social services, clean environments, reliable local roads, effective planning and responsive public services. The President commended Ayariga for assuming his role at a pivotal moment in Ghana's development, believing the minister's background as a legislator, lawyer and former Minister of State would aid him in performing his duties efficiently.

Ayariga's tenure includes previous stints as Minister for Youth and Sports and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, equipping him with knowledge of public administration, parliamentary accountability and the importance of consensus-building among Ghana's diverse populace. President Mahama stressed that public office is a privilege and a position of trust, requiring integrity, humility, fairness and loyalty to the Constitution.