The National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG) has urged for calm and restraint from all parties involved in the ongoing impasse between the Local Government Minister and the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
The Association expressed deep concern over the leakage of a letter from the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development to His Excellency the President, outlining issues of concern regarding the work of the DACF Administrator.
In a statement on behalf of NALAG, the President, Eric Nana Agyemang-Prempeh, condemned the leaking of the letter to the media and urged against further encouragement of such actions.
He emphasized the significance of the roles played by both the Local Government Minister and the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund in achieving the objective of inclusive and effective decentralization of power.
“We commend members of the association for their conduct during this period,” said Mr. Agyemang-Prempeh, expressing appreciation for the responsible behaviour exhibited by the local government stakeholders amidst the impasse.
In an appeal to all parties involved, including MMDCEs (Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives), Presiding Members, Assembly Members, and the Media, NALAG urged a cessation of any further discussions on the subject to prevent the exacerbation of existing issues.
“It is our prayer that the President resolves the issues amicably before the upcoming District level elections, which is a significant event on the calendar of the local government sector,” he added, highlighting the importance of finding a resolution promptly.
The impasse between the Local Government Minister and the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund has raised concerns within the local government sector.
While the details of the issues raised in the leaked letter have not been made public, NALAG’s call for calm underscores the need for constructive dialogue and resolution to ensure the smooth functioning of the local government system.