The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim has condemned the recent wave of protests over Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executive (MMDCE) nominations as “baseless theater” and “exam hall panic before results.”
Speaking to journalists, Ibrahim specifically referenced protests in Asante Mampong, Ashanti Region, where residents demonstrated despite the region’s MMDCE list remaining unannounced except for Kumasi’s mayoral nomination.
“Why demonstrate when nominations haven’t been disclosed? It’s like a student crying about exam failure before seeing their results,” he analogized, urging citizens to reserve judgment until presidential announcements
He said “Ashanti Region has not yet had its MMDCE announced; only the Kumasi mayor has been mentioned. So, if you are in Asante Mampong and you are demonstrating, what are you demonstrating for?
“It is like going for an exam, knowing you could not write the exam, and crying that the examiner will fail you. Wait until the examiner brings the results. When the results are out and you fail, then you can question it and call for a remark. But the results are not out, and you are already crying that you are going to fail.”
The minister extended his critique to Tema Central in Greater Accra, where similar unrest emerged prematurely.
“Greater Accra’s nominations haven’t been published. Why assume someone else is favored? Such actions imply protesters already consider others more competent,” he stated.
Emphasizing the president’s exclusive authority over nominations, Ibrahim confirmed completing his ministerial duties in the selection process.
“As the minister, I have completed my work, and the work is now with the president.”
He then pivoted to praise, hailing the administration of John Dramani Mahama “lightning speed” cabinet formation and Council of State elections as ‘unprecedented’ in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.”
Source: www.kumasimail.com/ Kwadwo Owusu
