A Former Upper East Regional President of the Ghana Association of Assembly Members (GAAM), David Adoliba has shed light on the challenges faced by Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) in the region.
According to Mr. Adoliba, many MDCEs appointed by the outgone Akufo-Addo government struggled financially to implement development projects due to significant delays in releasing the District Assembly Common Fund.
He noted that, this funding shortage is a stark contrast to the experiences under the regimes of Presidents Mills and John Dramani Mahama, during which period the common fund was more readily available.
The Upper East Region, comprising 15 districts, has faced significant development challenges. As the region moves forward, it is essential to address the funding delays and ensure a more stable and efficient system for disbursing the District Assembly Common Fund. Only then can the region unlock its full potential and provide a better life for its citizens.
Speaking on Breakfast Today on Dreamz FM, Mr Adoliba emphasized that the underdevelopment of various districts in the region cannot be attributed solely to individual MDCE, rather to the inconsistent flow of funds under the watch of the outgone New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
He said “Though other MMDCEs were proactive in their activities, but there was a bigger challenge. Even though the Government slashed common fund into two, yet it wasn’t forthcoming. As a result of this, districts that had no other source of internally generated funds suffered so much”.
Mr. Adoliba remains optimistic that the situation will improve under President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership. He believes Mahama’s plans and proactive approach will bring about positive change.
Specifically, he expects Mahama to ensure the proper allocation of common funds and appoint competent individuals who can deliver on their responsibilities, ultimately driving development in the region.
