Restore order to Ghana’s cities and stop encroachment on public spaces — Mahama to Ayariga

President John Dramani Mahama has tasked his newly appointed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, with restoring order to Ghana's cities and towns. At Ayariga's swearing-in ceremony, the President emphasized the need to address the persistent encroachment on public spaces and other urban development challenges that currently plague the country.

Mahama urged Ayariga to strengthen the responsiveness of metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies in order to improve planning and service delivery within local communities. He stressed that local government institutions are where citizens interact most directly with the state, and therefore expects efficient public services from these assemblies.

President Mahama highlighted the importance of having functioning markets, clean surroundings, reliable local roads, and effective spatial planning for the well-being of communities. He also called for greater accountability and financial discipline in these assemblies, as part of efforts to make decentralization meaningful to citizens.

The President noted that Ayariga's diverse background as a lawyer, legislator, and former State Minister made him well-suited to tackle the challenges facing Ghana's local governance system. He reminded Ayariga that public office entails placing the national interest above personal, political, and sectional considerations.