Africa-Press – Ghana. Mr. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has officially sworn into office all 18 Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) in the region, urging them to embrace visionary leadership and people-centred governance to accelerate development across the region.
The swearing-in ceremony, held in Ho, saw the newly appointed MDCEs-comprising 15 men and three women-take the oath of office and commit to the responsibilities of overseeing development and administration in their respective Assemblies.
In an address, Mr. Gunu described the occasion as the dawn of a new era in local governance and development.
“This moment marks the beginning of a journey where leadership must be defined not by titles or privileges, but by tangible impact and selfless service. You have been chosen not just to manage, but to transform,” he emphasised.
He challenged the new executives to lead with integrity, creativity, and accountability, stressing that Ghana’s developmental aspirations, particularly the goals of the NDC’s 2024 Manifesto, can only be achieved through effective grassroots leadership.
“The time for conventional approaches is over. The challenges our communities face-youth unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation-demand that you think differently and act boldly,” he said.
Mr. Gunu highlighted key expectations of the MDCEs, including fostering inclusive dialogue with constituents, enhancing internally generated funds (IGF), and building strategic partnerships to unlock development opportunities.
He cited potential in eco-tourism, agribusiness, and digital innovation as areas ripe for local investment.
He reminded them of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing that with just five years remaining, urgent and creative solutions are needed.
“Every cedi generated must result in visible improvements in education, healthcare, and local infrastructure. Let your leadership be measured not in promises, but in progress,” he said.
He also cautioned against complacency and detachment from the grassroots: “Sit with market women, walk the farms, speak with the youth, and listen to hawkers. The era of arrogant, disconnected leadership is over.”
Mr. Gunu encouraged MDCEs to embrace the “Jobs for Youth” initiative and ensure transparency in procurement and service delivery. He urged them to leave behind legacies that would be celebrated by future generations.
“Five years from now, will your district boast 100 per cent renewable energy in public schools? Will you establish youth-led agribusiness hubs? These are the questions that must guide your work.”
Also addressing the gathering was Mr. Augustus Awity, Chief Director of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), who called on the MDCEs to be humble, approachable, and effective mobilizers.
“You are not going to have it easy. Leadership is not about comfort, it’s about sacrifice, listening, and engaging. Remember, unpopularity starts at the district level. How you treat your people is what determines whether your government remains trusted,” he cautioned.
Representing his colleagues, Mr. Stephen Adom, the Municipal Chief Executive of Ho, expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC leadership for the confidence reposed in them.
“We accept this honour with humility and a deep sense of responsibility. We assure you that we will not fail the President, our party, or the people of this region,” he pledged.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by coordinating directors, traditional leaders, former MDCEs, family members, and other dignitaries, who offered their blessings and support to the new crop of local government executives.
The new MDCEs are expected to assume full responsibilities in their districts immediately, as they embark on what the Regional Minister described as a “sacred mission to transform lives and communities with courage, compassion, and competence.
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