The Upper West Regional Minister, Mr. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, urges newly appointed Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to remain within their jurisdictions. This is necessary to ensure the effective delivery of their mandate.
“Let me make it clear to you that it is not acceptable and will not be tolerated for any MMDCE to reside outside your district and commute daily to your district, you must live with your people, understand their challenges first hand and be accessible, your visibility is not only a symbol of leadership but a catalyst for accountability and trust,” he stated.
Mr. Lwanga made this statement during the swearing-in ceremony of nine MMDCEs. They were confirmed by their regional assemblies. The ceremony took place in Wa, the regional capital.
The Minister emphasised that he would not condone a situation where MMDCES lived outside their districts. He insisted that MMDCES need to be living among the people they serve, not commuting daily. He stressed that anyone found guilty of this would face legal consequences.
He also urged the newly sworn-in MMDCEs to visit their communities regularly. They should make sure to visit especially the more remote areas. Building strong relationships with community leaders and residents is essential.
The Minister highlighted the importance of addressing critical issues. These include sanitation, education, and road construction. The Minister also emphasized regulating unauthorized building activities and providing potable water.
“To be an MMDCE is not just managing an office. It is to inspire hope where there is despair, to champion equity where there is exclusion, to build roads, schools, clinics, and markets—yes—but also to build trust, integrity, and unity, your decisions today will echo across generations, you cannot afford to fail, you must work with the departments of the Assembly and opinion leaders,” he stated.
He further urged the MMDCEs to follow due process. He advised them to collaborate closely with their District Coordinating Directors. They should also work with other technical officers to achieve success.
The Wa High Court Judge, Justice Yusif Assibey, led the nine confirmed MMDCEs. They took the oath of office. They also pledged allegiance.
The nine MMDCEs include Alhaji Nuru Issah Danwana (Wa Municipal Assembly). James Wor represents the Daffiama Bussie Issa District. Richard Wulo serves Wa West. Alhaji Adams Muazu is with Lawra Municipal. Anthony Ziniel is from the Nandom Municipality.
Naawulie Ireneous Basingbie was sworn in for the Lambussie District. Abudu Fuseini Gbene took the oath for the Sissala West Municipality. Adamu Yakubu assumed office in the Sissala East Municipality. Peter N.N. To-Ang was sworn in for the Jirapa Municipality.
Meanwhile, two of the remaining nominees were rejected by their respective assemblies. Mary Haruna is from the Nadowli-Kaleo District, and Adamu Sayibu is from the Wa East District. They await further instructions from the President.
