The Government has commenced a campaign to encourage participation in the upcoming national referendum on the election of Metropolitan Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) by universal adult suffrage.
The referendum needs at least 40% voter turnout and 75% yes votes for the election of MMDCEs to be adopted.
Addressing journalists in Bolgatanga on Sunday, the Minister of Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah reminded Ghanaians of President Akufo-Addo’s promise to ensure a shift from the current system of appointing MMDCEs which some have argued makes a President too powerful and prevents MMDCEs from being directly accountable to the people.
“In fulfilment of this, Government has completed all its consultations and preparatory works,” he said.
The referendum is for the amendment of Article 55(3) of the 1992 Constitution to allow for the public election of MMDCEs.
The referendum is expected to come off on 17th December 2019 alongside the district level elections.
“This requires high levels of public education and campaigns to get people fully sensitized to take up this rare opportunity in which a sitting President devolves power to the citizens. The 1992 Constitution is criticized for giving all powers to the President. President Akufo-Addo in fulfilment of his promise is working to reverse that at least in the area of decentralization and requires our full support to achieve that,“ Mr. Nkrumah said.
The Minister urged the media and civil society groups to join in this campaign.
“This is necessary to deepen our democracy and give more power to the people. All stakeholders are encouraged to take an interest in this referendum and campaign for a yes vote to ensure its success,” he concluded.
