The vetting process for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across the 14 MMDAs in the Western Region is underway, with 138 individuals submitting their applications for consideration.
The regional office of the ruling National Democratic Congress has set aside four days, from January 17 to 20, 2024, to vet and select three candidates from each district.
These selected candidates will undergo further vetting at the national level, with the final candidates chosen to represent the president across the region’s various MMDAs.
So far, 70 applicants from districts including Ahanta West, Amenfi East, Amenfi Central, Prestea Huni Valley, Ellembella, Jomoro, and Evalue Ajomoro Gwira have successfully gone through the vetting process.
While some members of the public have expressed concerns about the high number of candidates, fearing potential chaos, the Chairman of the Vetting Committee, Nana Toku, reassured the public that the process will remain transparent.
“We want the aspirants to understand that everything we do is in their best interest. The party needs to be strong and vibrant, and whoever is selected will work as part of a team. Ultimately, the president has the final say in choosing the right candidate,” he explained.
Nana Toku also praised the decision to allow aspirants to apply and undergo vetting, stating that it gives them the chance to present their qualifications to party leaders “even if they are not selected as MMDCEs, the process could open doors for other positions”.
Many of the candidates have welcomed the vetting process, seeing it as an opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities.
Augustina Ama Kwofie, an aspirant for the MCE position in Evalue Ajomoro Gwira, expressed confidence in the process and pledged to champion girl-child education if she is selected.
Herbert Addison another aspirant for the same position in Evalue Ajomoro Gwira, also expressed his trust in the process and vowed to eliminate the issue of “school under trees” in the municipality if given the opportunity to lead.
