Partisan MMDCE elections could stifle development – NDC

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has voiced concerns over potential partisan elections for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). Deputy Director of Elections and Information Technology of the NDC, Rashid Tanko Computer, argued that such an approach could hinder development at the local level. He cited the risk of an opposition MMDCE being elected in major cities like Kumasi or Accra while central government remains under a different political party.

Computer stated that this situation would create a disconnect and stifle progress. He emphasized that Ghana's local governance system must respect the country's unique political culture and traditions instead of merely adopting models from Western nations. The NDC's proposed selection process involves five candidates going through public service commission interviews before a final vote by district residents, which differs from the current system where the President nominates a candidate and assembly members vote.

This alternative model aims to strike a balance between democratic participation and effective coordination between local and central governments, according to Computer. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has opposed the NDC's proposal, advocating for districts to have the autonomy to choose their own leaders.