Refreshingly, President John Dramani Mahama appears on track to keeping his campaign promise to govern with 60 ministers. Already, he has realigned the ministries, reducing the number from 30 to 23. This seeks to achieve the much-talked-about lean government and realise the government’s vision of strategic governance to address critical national challenges.

Of particular interest is the birth of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs. Clearly, this newly-aligned ministry brings to the fore the President’s focus on taking local governance to another level. An efficient and effective local government is a sine-qua-non for driving national development.

As education consultant and poet, Femi Olabisi, wrote, “The universal need for the establishment of the local government system in any polity is not controvertible. It appears to be a general agreement among nations that for grassroots development, the local government institution is the most veritable catalyst.”

 Experience is Key

Arguably, this particular re-aligned Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs is the engine room of the new government. This calls for a sector Minister who not only understands the workings of the system but also possesses the skills to harmonise the complex relationships among local governments, traditional leaders, and religious institutions.

The appointee must combine a deep understanding of local governance systems with the ability to harmonize the often competing interests of traditional and religious institutions. This role requires not only technical expertise but also political and cultural sensitivity to navigate these complexities effectively.

In the past, mismanagement in local governance has led to underutilized resources and community discontent. This ministry has the potential to change that narrative by fostering collaboration between local governments, chiefs, and religious leaders to drive sustainable development.

 New Dawn of Accountability

It cannot be business as usual. The challenges faced by local governance demands innovative solutions and a fresh approach to leadership, breaking away from ineffective past practices.

President Mahama has a duty to prove why Ghanaians brought him back as President, and he cannot afford to falter. He must demonstrate his understanding of the unique challenges of this ministry and appoint a leader with both competence and vision.

The appointee must deliver results by ensuring this ministry becomes the cornerstone of grassroots development, economic progress, and community harmony.

Opportunity is now

With the right leadership in this ministry, Ghana can achieve its vision of empowering local governance and fostering grassroots development that benefits every citizen. The opportunity is now, and the stakes are high.

John Mahama has shown boldness in realigning the government for strategic impact. Let us trust that this boldness will reflect in his appointment of a capable leader for this pivotal ministry, ensuring that Ghana’s governance system is transformed for the better.

 The writer is a journalist and former member (government appointee) of the Asunafo District Assembly, with a deep understanding of local governance and grassroots development.