Chairperson of Parliament’s Local Government and Rural Development Committee of Ghana’s Parliament, Queenstar Pokuah Sawyerr, has urged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure funds allocated by the central government are fully utilized to benefit their communities.
Her caution follows revelations that some assemblies have left significant sums unused while priority projects remain unexecuted.
The issue came up when the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Upper Denkyira East, George Anane, appeared before the committee to respond to queries on his assembly’s annual internal audit report.
He disclosed that about GH₵6.6 million representing the first and second quarter releases of the 2025 District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) was still sitting idle in the assembly’s account.
The disclosure drew concern from the committee, prompting its chairperson to issue a strong reminder to all MMDCEs.
“These funds were released to ensure communities directly benefit through boreholes, toilets, and other basic amenities, while bigger projects are handled at the regional or national level. The monies are not meant to remain idle in accounts; they must be put to use. Follow due process and make the President’s vision a reality,” Hon. Sawyerr emphasised.
She observed that some MMDCEs have become “too cautious” with expenditure, resulting in unnecessary delays in local development.
The Agona East MP advised them to seek guidance from their regional ministers and the Minister for Local Government, when necessary, rather than holding back on spending.
Some regional ministers and MMDCEs present welcomed the committee’s directive, noting that it would help promote responsible and timely use of funds.
The Local Government and Rural Development Committee is currently conducting a week-long public hearing on the annual internal audit reports of MMDAs across the country. The exercise is expected to help curb financial infractions often cited in the Auditor-General’s Report.
