The Coalition of District Assembly Members (CODAM) has formally endorsed former President John Dramani Mahama as the next President of Ghana, citing his track record and vision for strengthening local governance as critical to the nation’s development.
At a press conference led by CODAM President Hon. Mawunyo Agbe, the coalition of Assembly Members expressed deep concerns about the state of decentralization under the current administration. CODAM criticized the government’s unfulfilled promises, such as the failure to provide motorbikes to the Ninth Assembly Members and the neglect of basic membership support for the National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG).
CODAM highlighted Former President Mahama’s previous contributions to local governance, including his role as Vice President under the late Professor John Evans Atta Mills, when he facilitated the provision of motorbikes for Assembly Members—a first in Ghana’s history. The coalition emphasized that his leadership as Chairman of the Economic Management Team demonstrated a commitment to empowering grassroots governance.
Proposed Reforms Under Mahama’s Leadership
CODAM praised Mr. Mahama’s pledge to introduce a monthly consolidated allowance for Assembly Members, a move they believe will enhance their capacity to effectively serve their communities. The proposed allowance is expected to:
- Support Immediate Community Needs: Assembly Members often act as the first point of contact during emergencies, ceremonies, and developmental activities. The allowance would enable timely and effective responses.
- Strengthen Transparency and Accountability: Enhanced financial support would help Assembly Members safeguard public resources and improve oversight within local governance structures.
CODAM also backed Mr. Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative, aimed at reclaiming unlawfully mismanaged state resources.
Concerns Over Property Rate Collections
A significant issue raised by CODAM was the management of property rate collections by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Digital City Solutions (DCS). The coalition flagged irregularities and unlawful practices in the process, which have led to a court case between DCS and GRA. CODAM has petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor and triggered the Right to Information Act to ensure accountability in the use of property rate revenues.
“The revenues collected must be accurately accounted for and transferred to the respective Assemblies in a timely manner,” said Hon. Agbe, emphasizing that property rate collection should adhere to the Local Governance Act, 2016 [Act 936].
A Call to Action
CODAM urged all Ghanaians to support Mr. Mahama’s bid for the presidency, describing his leadership as a renewed commitment to decentralization, accountability, and the empowerment of local governance structures.
“As Assembly Members, we believe in a leadership that prioritizes local development and strengthens the structures needed for sustainable growth,” said Hon. Agbe. “H.E. John Dramani Mahama’s resetting agenda offers a clear path forward.”
The Coalition concluded the press conference with a call for unity in advancing the nation’s development agenda through effective decentralization and grassroots empowerment.
Below is their full statement:
Source: InsiderGH.com
