Some residents of Sogakope in the South Tongu District, have expressed their support for President John Dramani Mahama's renewed commitment to reform local governance in the country, saying that will deepen accountability.They were particularly happy over his plan to introduce the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) starting 2026.Mr Mahama made the announcement on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, during the opening of the 2025 Orientation Programme for MMDCEs in Accra, where he revealed that the National Review Committee on local governance was finalising consultations on proposed constitutional changes, including the direct election of District Chief Executives and granting greater financial control to local assemblies.According to the President, recent public surveys indicate broad national support for the reforms, suggesting that the current crop of MMDCEs may be the last to be appointed rather than elected.This announcement has been met with enthusiasm in Sogakope, where residents believe such reforms would significantly improve accountability and local development.Speaking to community members, many expressed the hope that the long-awaited shift would give them a stronger voice in who governs at the local level."When MMDCEs are appointed, they tend to be more loyal to the president than to the people.
If we elect them like our Members of Parliament, they will know they must deliver to earn our votes again," said Madam Esi Adzo, a market trader in Sogakope.Mr Seth Kwabla, a teacher, echoed this view, stating, "This will push them to work harder, knowing that the people have the power to vote them out.
But it shouldn't just be about voting-we need laws that allow candidates from different parties to contest freely."Similarly, Madam Akosua Kumea, a seamstress in the community, emphasised the importance of a solid legal framework, saying, "President Mahama must ensure that he follows through with legislation."We want this to be just like the presidential and parliamentary elections-free, fair, and open to all," she added.The Ghana News Agency observed that the idea of electing MMDCEs has been a topic of debate in the district as President Mahama's firm timeline of 2026 for the implementation, along with the ongoing constitutional review process, signals a renewed push toward decentralisation and stronger grassroots democracy.The call for reform appears to be gaining momentum, as citizens look forward to a more accountable and participatory system of local governance.-GNA
