Keta: Residents in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region have called on Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) across the region to comply with President John Dramani Mahama's directive to declare their assets within the stipulated period. They believe this move would enhance transparency and accountability in public office without any speculation and unfounded accusations.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Benjamin Kofi Hamenu, a retired teacher at Vui, a suburb of Keta, expressed in an interview that the directive from the president for all MMDCEs to declare their assets by July 15, 2025, is part of the government's efforts to promote integrity and accountability at the district levels. He emphasized that the President's expectation for compliance should not pose a challenge. Mr. Hamenu explained that asset declaration would help to prevent corruption and ensure that public officials are held to high standards of integrity, as mandated by the Public Office Holders Declaration of Assets and Disqualification Act, 1998 (Act 550).
Mr. Hamenu further advised that any MMDCE or government appointee who fails to comply with the directive within the given time frame should be dismissed to set an example for others. He stated that the initiative is believed to be beneficial for promoting transparency and accountability in public offices, ensuring MMDCEs are held responsible.
Madam Selikem Amenyo, a businesswoman, also shared with the Ghana News Agency that transparency and accountability in public offices are crucial for building trust and ensuring public officials work in the best interests of the people. She noted that MMDCEs play a critical role in local governance processes, and it is important for them to remain transparent and accountable in their dealings.
Some other residents engaged by the Ghana News Agency expressed mixed reactions to the call. While some believed that MMDCEs' asset declaration is important to curb speculations, allegations of theft, and unnecessary anxieties, others offered varied opinions on the matter.
