Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, has emphasized the importance of digitalization and accountability in modernizing local governance and chieftaincy institutions.
Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Mr. Ibrahim outlined his vision for fostering transparency and ensuring efficiency within these sectors.
Addressing revenue challenges, he highlighted the need to digitize revenue collection systems to reduce delays and inefficiencies.
“A fair solution to our revenue issues is to embrace digital platforms that will not only streamline processes but also enhance accountability at all levels,” he stated. He projected that digitalization could significantly boost revenue generation and support local development initiatives.
Mr. Ibrahim also underscored the importance of good governance and accountability, noting that these principles are fundamental to building trust between the government and citizens. “We must believe in and work towards a government that is transparent and accountable, where resources are utilized for the benefit of the people,” he remarked.
On chieftaincy and religious affairs, the nominee addressed the recurring challenges of conflicts and disputes within traditional authorities. He emphasized the need for consistent dialogue and the active involvement of chiefs in promoting peace and development. “Our chiefs must be seen not only as custodians of tradition but also as partners in governance and nation-building,” he said.
The nominee further lamented the lack of access to critical resources, such as public libraries, which he described as essential for community growth and education. He proposed a collaborative approach to restoring and digitizing public infrastructure to ensure accessibility for all. “Every community deserves access to knowledge and tools that empower them to thrive,” he added.
Mr. Ibrahim concluded by stressing the need for fair practices in policy implementation, particularly in fostering inclusivity and equality within the local government and chieftaincy system. “The time for transformative governance is now. Together, we can create systems that are efficient, fair, and beneficial for all Ghanaians,” he assured.
The Appointments Committee will assess Mr. Ibrahim’s performance and vision before deciding on his confirmation.
