Ashanti Regional Minister Warns Rivalry Between MPs and DCEs Threatens Local Development

Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has raised alarm over the growing friction between Members of Parliament (MPs) and District Chief Executives (DCEs), cautioning that such political rivalries are stalling local development and weakening the effectiveness of governance structures across the region.

Addressing journalists in Kumasi on Monday, October 6, 2025, Dr. Amoakohene expressed disappointment that personal and political differences between some MPs and DCEs have created a hostile environment that hinders the execution of critical infrastructure projects and social interventions.

“The rivalry and the fact that they are not on very good terms will hinder the approval of the District Assemblies Common Fund, which is meant for the MPs, and some use that as a way to settle scores,” he said.

According to the Minister, these tensions often stem from political competition and misunderstandings over developmental priorities, with both parties seeking credit for government projects. Such conflicts, he explained, disrupt coordination between district assemblies and parliamentary offices — two entities that should ideally complement each other in promoting local growth.

Dr. Amoakohene revealed that in some districts, poor communication and mistrust have led to duplicated efforts, delays in project implementation, and even the abandonment of ongoing initiatives. “In some of the districts, because they may not understand each other, they decide or pretend not to be aware of initiatives coming from the assemblies. This is not helpful. For local governance to work effectively, we need to carry along all stakeholders,” he emphasized.

He also noted that the rivalry has financial implications, as disagreements between MPs and DCEs often affect the timely release and utilisation of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) — a key source of funding for local development.

The Minister underscored the importance of collaboration and mutual respect between MPs and DCEs, reminding them that both positions exist to serve the same constituents and advance the same national development agenda. “We must always remember that governance is a collective effort. No single leader can achieve meaningful progress without teamwork, transparency, and shared purpose,” he remarked.

Dr. Amoakohene called on regional coordinating councils, traditional authorities, and party executives to help mediate such disputes and foster unity among local leaders. He also urged MPs and DCEs to engage in regular dialogue and joint planning sessions to align priorities and avoid duplication of resources.

“The Ashanti Region is a key development hub for the country, and we cannot afford to let internal rivalries derail progress. Let us focus on delivering roads, schools, hospitals, and social amenities that directly benefit our people,” he concluded.

Observers say the Minister’s comments echo broader concerns about political fragmentation at the local level, where turf wars between appointed and elected officials continue to impede service delivery despite Ghana’s decentralisation efforts.