I'll not tolerate MMDCEs who will not work with traditional leaders - James Gunu

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has a clear message. He insists on collaboration with traditional authorities and religious leaders.

"I will not tolerate any municipality or district that does not cooperate," Mr. Gunu stated. This warning came during the confirmation ceremony for the Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive.

He explained that the president merged several ministries to promote this collaboration. The goal is to enhance development through partnerships with traditional and religious leaders.

This declaration coincided with a week-long confirmation process for MDCE nominees in the region. This process is crucial for local governance.

The confirmation began on Wednesday, April 2nd, starting with Akatsi North, Agortime Ziope, and Adaklu districts. Each of these districts unanimously endorsed the President’s nominees.

On the second day, South and North Dayi districts continued the process. However, not all nominees had an easy time. Courage Kwame Kokoroko from South Dayi initially failed to secure enough votes.

According to law, a second vote can occur within ten days if a nominee gets over 50% in the first round. After a brief recess, Kokoroko received 26 out of 31 votes in the second round, confirming him as DCE for South Dayi.

Meanwhile, Ernest Adevor from North Dayi easily secured his position with 30 out of 32 valid votes. Both DCEs promised to focus on development in their acceptance speeches.

Kokoroko committed to improving road infrastructure and access to clean water. He also emphasized enhancing agriculture, education, and healthcare in his district.

Adevor highlighted job creation and youth empowerment as his main goals. “Developing youth skills will be central to my administration,” he said.

On the third day of confirmations, Prosper Kumi was unanimously endorsed by Hohoe Municipal Assembly with a 100% vote. However, Afadjato South nominee Manfred Tawiah fell short by one vote initially but later secured 24 out of 32 votes in a second round.

In his speech, Kumi pledged to collaborate with all stakeholders for municipal development. “We will build strong partnerships to drive Hohoe forward,” he stated.

Tawiah called for unity among community members. “Let us set aside our differences and work together,” he urged.

So far, seven out of eighteen districts in Volta Region have confirmed their nominees from the President. The process will resume on Monday, April 7th in Kpando Municipal and surrounding areas.

The full slate of confirmations is expected by Friday, April 11th, 2025.