The Parliamentary Select Committee on Chieftaincy, Culture, and Religious Affairs has lauded the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA) for its effective leadership and commendable performance following a successful oversight visit on Monday, May 19. The visit formed part of the Committee’s mandate under Order 257 (2) of the Standing Orders of Parliament, which empowers it to examine the administration, policies, and activities of ministries under its oversight.
Led by Chairperson Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, the Committee engaged extensively with officials of the Ministry to evaluate its operational effectiveness, strategic focus, and policy implementation. The discussions were constructive and wide-ranging, reflecting the Committee’s intent to strengthen collaboration and ensure the Ministry is well-positioned to fulfil its mandate in promoting peace, preserving tradition, and enhancing local governance.
A central focus of the engagement was the Ministry’s approach to resolving chieftaincy disputes, an area of growing national concern. The Committee emphasised the importance of peaceful and sustainable solutions to these disputes and encouraged the Ministry to deepen its coordination with traditional leaders, regional houses of chiefs, and relevant judicial bodies. Officials from the Ministry assured the Committee of their commitment to inclusive dialogue, legal due process, and respect for customary practices as guiding principles in resolving such conflicts.
The Ministry also presented several key achievements during the session, showcasing its ongoing commitment to decentralisation and public service delivery. Notably, the Ministry successfully facilitated the Council of State elections and oversaw the appointment of 257 out of 261 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), helping to solidify local governance structures across the country.
Additionally, the Ministry is preparing to relaunch the National Sanitation Day initiative, an effort to promote environmental cleanliness and civic responsibility nationwide. Ministry officials noted that they are working assiduously to develop a comprehensive, sustainable framework to ensure the long-term impact of the programme. This initiative, they explained, aligns with national development and public health goals and is expected to mobilise communities toward improved sanitation practices.
The Committee expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s efforts to foster interfaith harmony, safeguard cultural heritage, and reinforce decentralised governance as foundational pillars of sustainable development. Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, reiterated the Ministry’s unwavering dedication to advancing sanitation and waste management, describing these as critical components of building clean, resilient, and prosperous communities.
In its closing remarks, the Select Committee commended the Ministry for its leadership and progress while urging continued diligence in executing its responsibilities. The Committee also recommended that the Ministry intensify its stakeholder engagement efforts, particularly in efforts to resolve the protracted Bawku conflict, by ensuring inclusive and constructive dialogue that reflects the voices of all parties involved.
Source: Sandra Owusu Asamoah/Melody Hini-Amoako
(Public Relations Unit MLGCRA)