All DCE nominees will be confirmed despite dissent – Gbande assures

Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency, spoke on Eyewitness News. He assured the public that all District Chief Executive (DCE) nominees will be confirmed. This announcement came from the Minister for Local Government, following President John Dramani Mahama's instructions. Gbande emphasized that despite some opposition within the governing party, support for the nominations remains strong.

He stated, “I must assure you that every list announced by the Local Government Minister will be confirmed.” His comments followed protests in Tema on April 13. A group of youth demanded that an indigene be appointed as Mayor of Tema. They expressed their frustration by burning tires and beating drums.

Gbande downplayed these protests as typical during political transitions. He described them as a nuisance associated with political parties and government formation. “We are in this position because problems will come,” he said.

He also highlighted the Presidency’s willingness to engage with dissatisfied supporters and communities. “We thank God the people involved are party people,” he noted. Most times, they regret their actions after engagement.

Gbande cautioned against interpreting protests as a rejection of the President’s choices. He said, “The fact that a handful of people are reacting doesn’t mean there is a shoddy work.” He assured that they would engage to de-escalate tensions and move forward together.