The Achimota Zonal Council of the Okaikwei North Municipal Assembly has elected Honourable Rashid Abdul Alhassan as its new Chairman.
Honourable Alhassan, also the Assemblyman for Blema-Gor Electoral Area garnered twelve (12) out of the expected fifteen (15) votes to replace Honourable Enoch Owusu Okyere the Assemblyman for Apenkwa Electoral Area.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Okaikwei North, Honourable Christian Tetteh Badger, described the election as a historic moment for his administration and a significant step in advancing the decentralization and participatory democracy.
He emphasized that the Zonal Council structure is a constitutional requirement that must be upheld with integrity, cautioning against corruption and abuse of office.
Honourable Tetteh Badger urged the members to use wisdom and divine guidance to elect a Chairman fit for the Council.
The Okaikwei North MCE explained that the Zonal Councils have a key role to play in President John Dramani Mahama’s reset agenda stressing the need for a functioning Zonal Council.
While eulogizing the foresight and vision of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings’s for the District Assembly concept said participatory democracy was key to the government.
The Chairman-elect, Honourable Alhassan in a message pledged to serve with honesty, humility, and hard work, adding that his new role as the Zonal Coordinator is not just an honour, but a greater call to service, “one that I embrace with full dedication.”
Honourable Alhassan promised to work hand in hand with all Assembly Members, unit committee members, market leaders, religious bodies, youth groups and other relevant stakeholders to ensure development, peace, and unity across the zone.
He noted: “Let us rise above differences and focus on the progress of our people. My doors will always remain open to your ideas, concerns, and suggestions. Because leadership is best when it is shared and guided by the people.”
The Presiding Member of the Assembly, Hon. Daniel Dzadey, also urged the newly constituted Council to work closely with the MCE and remain accountable.
“This Council is part of the Assembly, and your activities will be monitored. Support the MCE.” he said.
Mr. Francis Mensah the Municipal Coordinating Director stated that the formation of the new Zonal Council follows the unit committee elections held in May last year, paving the way for renewed Local Governance structures aimed at strengthening participatory democracy.
Source: onma.gov.gh
By Jeffrey De-Graft Johnson, AD IIB
