MMDAs to go live on local FM stations under new Ayariga directive

The Minister of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has outlined plans to mandate Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to air their meetings live on local FM stations. This directive aims to bolster transparency and accountability in local governance, granting residents increased access to assembly proceedings and decisions.

During a breakfast meeting in Accra on September 30, Ayariga emphasized that the Ministry will partner with local radio stations to ensure assembly meetings are accessible to the public. He highlighted that MMDAs, as local legislative bodies, should hold open discussions that are available to their communities. Ayariga announced that regulations would compel MMDAs to broadcast their meetings, stating, "Every assembly meeting, I’m coming out with regulations and directives that say that every assembly meeting must be aired live on the local FM stations because assemblies are local legislative bodies.

Their proceedings must be as transparent and open to the localities the same way that the proceedings of the national assembly, which is a national parliament, is equally." The government is currently supporting regional broadcasting stations, and the Minister believes this move will empower residents to better comprehend and engage with decisions impacting their communities.

The regulations align with the Ministry's broader objectives of enhancing public participation, transparency, and accountability within Ghana's local government framework.