Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo has publicly condemned certain Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the region for abusing their official positions to engage in partisan political activities.
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The minister’s remarks reflect deep concern over the erosion of neutrality in local government roles and the expectations of apolitical conduct from public officials.
Critique of Partisan Conduct in Local Offices
At a recent gathering with Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assembly (MMDA) officials and Ghanaian development partners, Minister Ocloo expressed frustration at the emerging trend of MMDCEs using government platforms to push party agendas: “We are here to serve communities, not party supporters. Your office is not a campaign headquarters.”
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She stressed that such actions compromise the impartiality of public service and blur the line between political loyalty and civic duty. “When the boundaries between governance and partisan politics break down, the very essence of local representation becomes diluted,” the minister stated.
A Call for Accountability and Civic Integrity
Minister Ocloo’s message underscores a broader concern: the need to respect the apolitical nature of MMDCE offices. Appointed to serve all constituents, regardless of political affiliation, MMDCEs must prioritize fair leadership and local development over partisan benefits.
Her statements coincide with calls for stronger governance ethics and are particularly salient in a region as populous and politically vibrant as Greater Accra. Many of these local executives have direct influence over critical functions such as infrastructure delivery, waste management, and community welfare programs.
Digital Revenue and Local Governance Innovations
In the same forum, the minister urged assemblies to adopt digital and cashless revenue collection platforms to boost transparency and efficiency in internally generated funds (IGF). By mandating technological reforms, her office is reinforcing a governance framework that improves accountability—an approach starkly incompatible with partisan office misuse.
As of the first quarter of 2025, Greater Accra MMDAs had mobilized over GH¢80 million in IGF—representing approximately 23 percent of the region’s budget. Minister Ocloo views the adoption of digital systems as a critical step not only for financial integrity but also for protecting MMDCEs’ roles from politicization.
Public Reaction and Political Fallout
Responses to the minister’s statements were mixed and reflective of Ghana’s broader debate on governance and partisanship:
- Supporters hailed Ocloo’s stance as brave and timely, applauding her for anchoring public office in neutrality and community service.
- Critics cautioned that her comments could be politically motivated, urging that the focus remain on delivering public goods rather than internal politics.
A segment of civic groups echoed the minister’s concern, warning that politicizing MMDCE roles undermines public trust and hampers local development.
Historical Context and Decentralization Debate
Ocloo’s criticism also revisits a long-standing tension in Ghana: the balance between decentralization and partisanship in local governance. Debates have repeatedly surfaced regarding whether MMDCEs should be elected versus appointed, and whether local governance can remain non-partisan in a highly competitive political environment.
In 2019, proposed constitutional amendments that would have allowed for the direct election of MMDCEs were put forward. However, the referendum was later cancelled, highlighting the complexity and sensitivity of institutional reforms around local offices.
Enhancing Public Service Through Non-Partisan Leadership
For communities in Greater Accra to thrive, MMDCEs must clearly distinguish their official roles from partisan politics. Minister Ocloo’s remarks send a clear message: responsibility, neutrality, and service to all residents must guide local governance.
Her push for digital IGF systems, public accountability, and an end to political office misuse sets a tone that could redefine expectations for local leadership—not just in Greater Accra, but potentially across Ghana.
Greater Accra remains a politically significant region and a key laboratory for governance reforms. As the minister’s call gains attention, it remains to be seen whether her message will lead to tangible behavioral change among MMDCEs and whether the principle of apolitical governance will be upheld as Ghana’s municipal offices evolve.
