A SOCIETY without a leader is like a jungle. Though it may not be liken to a jungle, the continuous absence of leaders for some key positions could be seen as retardation to unity and development.
That exactly is the case of Bolgatanga Municipality where there is no paramount chief because there is a dispute over who replaces the late chief as two royals from different gates have enskinned themselves as paramount chiefs. Events leading up to their installations at different but very close dates led to sporadic shootings in the royal community of Atulbabiisi. A number of houses were set ablaze. Today, the police and the military have set up camps and providing security for the two self-imposed chiefs. Though the two carry themselves as paramount chiefs, none is recognized by the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs.
Politically, the Municipal Chief Executive is the administrative head of the assembly. However, since Edward Ayagle’s tenure of office expired in August this year as MCE, President Mahama is yet to find his replacement. Though Class News has learned five names have been submitted to the Presidency for the President’s consideration and nomination, development watchers, Assembly members and executives of the governing NDC are worried about the situation.
Another leadership crisis the assembly is faced with is the failure of members of the assembly to elect a Presiding Member for three consecutive times. Since members assumed office, they have to appoint sit-in Presiding Member to preside over the business of the house.
Mr. Gabriel Ayine, Assembly member for Upper Dopori-tidongo Electoral Area, narrated to business of the house. “It is very worrying that for close to three months now as a house, we still do not have a Presiding Member…it is something that is affecting business of the house.
He explained that though per the standing orders of the assembly, they always got one of the assembly members to preside over business of the house, the person’s mandated expired immediately after the day’s proceedings. This system did not allow for follow ups on issues discussed.
Mr. Ayine again said due to the absence of a MP, members were unable to form sub-committees which would also form executive committee.
Mr. Abdallah Salifu, Bolgatanga Central Constituency Secretary of the NDC, though agreed the situation affected the business of the assembly, he also said there were perceived blocks among the 52 members thus making it difficult for them to elect a Presiding Member.
He explained that apart from the fact that the MCE performed administrative role as the father of the Municipality, he also supported the party to execute its agenda and as such, his absence was negatively affecting the structure of the party in the Municipality.
Though Mr. James Tiigah, the Regional Minister was acting as MCE, Mr. Abdallah said his busy schedules and office location did not offer many people the opportunity to be able to meet with him and have their documents endorsed within a day or two as was done when the MCE was in office.
Mr. Abdallah was however hopeful if the MCE was appointed, members would come to a comprise to elect a presiding member.
Credit: William Nlanjerbor JALULAH/The Chronicle/Ghana
