According to the Ministry, the inauguration is to facilitate the swearing-in of newly elected and appointed members of the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MMDAs) as part of efforts to deepen local governance and decentralisation to promote participatory decision-making at the local level.

“This is also in fulfillment of Article 35 Clause 6 (d) of the 1992 Constitution which enjoins the state to promote decentralisation and popular participation in governance by affording all possible opportunities to the citizenry to participate in decision-making at all levels of government,” a part of a press release signed by Head of Public Relations, Matilda Tettey reads.

“Additionally, Section 16 (1) of the Local Governance Act, 2016, Act 936 requires Assembly members to maintain close contact with the electoral area; consult the people on the issues to be discussed in the District Assembly; collate their views, opinions, and proposals; and take part in communal and development activities, among others,” the release added.

The Ministry encouraged all citizens “to get involved in the workings of the District Assemblies and participate in decision-making in their various communities through their Assembly members after the inauguration of the District Assemblies.