7 in 10 Back Electing MMCEs, IEA Survey Reveals

Public Support for Electing Local Leaders in Ghana

A recent survey conducted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has highlighted a strong public preference among Ghanaians for electing Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). The findings reveal that 67.9 percent of respondents support the idea of elected MMDCEs, indicating a shift in public opinion regarding local governance structures.

This preference is significant as it comes amid ongoing discussions about whether MMDCEs should be appointed or elected. The IEA’s survey found that a majority of citizens favor elections over other methods of selection, such as presidential appointments. This suggests a growing desire for more participatory and accountable local governance systems.

Non-Partisan Elections Preferred

One of the key aspects of the survey was exploring public views on the nature of these elections. Respondents were asked whether they believed MMDCE elections should be partisan or non-partisan. The results showed that 63.5 percent of Ghanaians supported non-partisan elections, while 36.5 percent preferred either partisan elections or alternative selection methods.

The IEA noted that this preference for non-partisan elections may reflect a lack of trust in political parties when it comes to managing local affairs. This sentiment aligns with the current legal framework in Ghana, which prohibits political parties from participating in local-level polls.

Awareness of Current Governance System

The survey also aimed to gauge public awareness of how MMDCEs are currently selected. It found that 69.6 percent of respondents knew that MMDCEs are appointed by the president, while 30.4 percent were unaware of the process. Although the level of awareness is relatively high, the IEA emphasized the need for civic education, particularly among those who lack knowledge about the appointment system.

This finding underscores the importance of educating citizens about their roles and responsibilities in the governance structure. It also highlights the need for transparency and clarity in the processes that shape local leadership.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

The debate over whether MMDCEs should be elected has been a long-standing issue in Ghana. In 2019, there was an attempt to amend the Constitution to allow political party participation in local elections and make the MMDCE position elective. However, the effort was abandoned due to a lack of national consensus.

In recent years, the issue has resurfaced, especially following President John Dramani Mahama's call for MMDCEs to be elected on a non-partisan basis ahead of the 2024 elections. This aligns with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s 2024 Resetting Ghana Manifesto, which emphasizes the need for reforms in local governance.

Nationwide Survey Insights

To better understand public opinion, the IEA conducted a nationwide poll between 15 and 26 August 2025. The survey targeted citizens aged 18 and above across all 16 regions of Ghana. The data collected provides valuable insights into public expectations and will contribute to the broader national conversation on deepening democratic governance in the country.

The findings highlight the importance of involving citizens in shaping policies that affect their communities. They also reinforce the need for continued dialogue and reform efforts to ensure that local governance reflects the will of the people.

Conclusion

The IEA’s survey underscores a clear public preference for elected MMDCEs and non-partisan processes. These findings provide a foundation for further discussions on constitutional and governance reforms. As Ghana continues to evolve, the role of local leaders in promoting accountability, transparency, and citizen participation remains crucial. The results of this survey offer a timely opportunity to address these issues and build a more inclusive and effective governance system.

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