Mahama has emphasised that asset declaration is a crucial measure in the fight against corruption

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a directive to all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across the country to comply with Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution by declaring their assets by July 15, 2025, or face sanctions.

Speaking during the official opening of the 2025 Orientation and Training Programme for MMDCEs at the Institute of Local Government in Accra on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, under the theme “Strengthening Local Government through the Reset Agenda”, President Mahama emphasised that asset declaration is not just a constitutional obligation, but a crucial measure in the fight against corruption.

“I wish to remind you that you are among the office holders required to declare your assets, and so I expect that by July 15, all of you will have declared your assets,” the President warned.

“Since I assumed office, defaulters have already faced sanctions. The law will be applied, and no exceptions will be made.”

He also announced what he described as the largest transfer of resources to MMDAs in the history of Ghana’s Fourth Republic, disclosing that 80% of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) is being directly transferred to the Assemblies. Every district is guaranteed a minimum of GH¢25 million this year.

“We have taken steps to transfer the highest amount of funds in our democratic history to you. The funds must be utilised in the interest of our people and not for our creature comforts,” he stressed.

He warned that this increased funding comes with heightened scrutiny and accountability.

“The Auditor General and other anti-corruption institutions will be watching your work. If any of these institutions start investigating you, don’t expect me to interfere on your behalf,” he told the MMDCEs.

Also addressing the gathering, the Minister of Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development, Ahmed Ibrahim, reaffirmed the ministry’s support for the MMDCEs.

He stressed the need for their active participation in national flagship programmes, including the 24-Hour Economy Market Initiative, and emphasised the government’s commitment to grassroots leadership.

AM/KA

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