Accra: The Rural Initiative for Self-Empowerment-Ghana (RISE-Ghana), a local human rights and sustainable non-governmental organization, has organized a public education forum on political party manifesto tracking in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region. The forum aimed at equipping women and youth groups, queen mothers, Assembly members, persons with disabilities, and staff of the Bongo District Assembly with skills to hold their elected leaders accountable based on the campaign promises made prior to the 2024 elections.
According to Ghana News Agency, the forum formed part of RISE-Ghana's Democracy 360 project, which is being implemented in Bongo, Bolgatanga Central, and Nabdam District, under the STAR-Ghana-led Inclusive Elections and Accountable Governance programme funded by the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Mr. John Kaguna, Project Officer of RISE-Ghana, emphasized that political promises are akin to social contracts, and constituents must ensure these are fulfilled for developmental progress.
Mr. Henry Adeenza Agaabil, the District Director of the Electoral Commission, spoke on 'Understanding and Utilizing Party Manifestoes for Post-Election Accountability and Improved Service Delivery.' He noted that while the Commission monitors political funding, accountability of promises was outside its remit, thus appreciating RISE-Ghana's initiative in promoting good governance through accountability.
Mr. Michael Asampana, the Inter-sectoral Committee Secretary of the Democracy 360 project, underscored the role of citizens in treating elected leaders as employees and demanding accountability. He highlighted that the Inter-Sectoral Committee, made up of political parties, persons with disabilities, Civil Society Organisations, and the media, is dedicated to supporting constituents in holding MPs accountable.
Alhaji Ibrahim Habila, Bongo District Coordinating Director, commended RISE-Ghana's efforts to hold political leaders accountable, urging constituents to also monitor contractors on district projects. Pognab Christiana Ngeh, the Paramount Queen Mother of Bongo, expressed gratitude to RISE-Ghana and its partners, pledging her support for the project's success.
