Streetism, encroachment persist because of weak local governance – Miracles

Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Director of Communications for the Bawumia 2024 campaign, has criticized Ghana's limited commitment to decentralisation. He believes many development challenges stem from overdependence on the central government. These challenges include streetism, encroachment, and illegal structures.

Aboagye spoke on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on May 21. He emphasized that true national development requires full decentralisation. "Until we go fully decentralised, we won't reach our goals," he stated. He pointed out that countries we admire are fully decentralised. Their development relies on municipalities, not just the central government.

He noted that Ghana's democratic system supports strong local governance. However, successive governments have failed to empower district assemblies with autonomy and resources. "We cannot expect issues like streetism and encroachment to be managed by the central government," he said.

Aboagye argued this approach is hypocritical regarding decentralisation. He added that it is not about political parties like NDC or NPP. The central government often resists allowing district assemblies to function effectively.

His comments come during a time of increased discussion about urban management and local governance in Ghana. This follows recent decongestion efforts in Accra. Aboagye's remarks highlight concerns that centralised power hinders local development and responsiveness of district assemblies.