71% of Ghanaians Prefer Individual Applications for MMDCE Positions – IEA Poll

A new nationwide survey by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) has revealed overwhelming public support for non-partisan elections of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), with most Ghanaians favouring a system where aspirants apply individually rather than being nominated by political authorities.

The follow-up poll, conducted from October 3 to 20, 2025 across all 16 regions, sampled 1,311 adults aged 18 and above.

According to the findings, 71.37% of respondents want MMDCE hopefuls to submit individual applications, reflecting growing demand for a merit-based, citizen-driven leadership selection at the local level.

By contrast, only 15.7% supported the presidential nomination of candidates, while 12.98% preferred nominations through assembly structures. The results highlight a sharp decline in public approval for political gatekeeping in decentralised governance.

The IEA said the trend points to increasing dissatisfaction with political interference in district administration and a desire for reforms that redefine how power is exercised locally.

“The findings underscore Ghanaians’ desire for greater autonomy and accountability in local governance,” the IEA noted. “Citizens want MMDCEs who are chosen based on competence, not party affiliation or presidential discretion.”

Respondents also indicated that an open, individual-application system would enhance transparency and reduce political patronage in district leadership.

Debate over how MMDCEs should be selected—whether elected, appointed or chosen through hybrid mechanisms—has persisted for years. But the IEA’s latest data suggests public appetite for full non-partisan elections has grown significantly since the national consultations held in 2019.

The findings come at a time when civil society organisations and decentralisation advocates are renewing calls for constitutional reforms to overhaul Ghana’s local governance architecture.

With more than seven in ten citizens favouring an open, competitive process, pressure is expected to mount on policymakers to revive stalled reforms and give Ghanaians a direct say in who leads their districts.