The Tema Metropolitan Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has heightened its educational efforts on the upcoming District Level Elections (DLE), scheduled for Tuesday, December 19, to stimulate public interest.
Ms Gifty Agyeiwaa Badu, the Tema Metropolitan Director of NCCE, expressed concern about the apathy surrounding the District Level Election (DLE), emphasizing its significance as the foundation of development within communities.
She revealed that sensitization on the election commenced at the beginning of the year, aligning with the Commission's 2023 theme: “30 Years of Constitutional Democracy, Building National Cohesion through Civic Education and Participation in Local Governance.”
The sensitization process has engaged various identifiable groups, including churches, mosques, schools, artisans, traditional authorities, and disabled associations. Additionally, radio broadcasts and information vans have been utilized to reach a wider audience.
Ms. Badu encouraged the electorate to exercise their civic rights by participating in the voting process for their representatives at the assembly. The voting period is set from 0700 hours to 1700 hours.
She reminded voters to base their choices on issues rather than monetary considerations or personality, emphasizing the importance of remembering to bring their Voter ID cards.
The District Level Elections, mandated by Section Six of the Local Governance Act 2016 (Act 936), as amended by Act 940, are held every four years. The elections must be at least six months apart from the presidential and parliamentary elections.
The district assemblies play a crucial role in bringing decision-making and development to the community level. Elected members serve as conduits for the people's concerns, addressing issues such as drains, roads, streetlights, and market centers.
Furthermore, assembly members are tasked with meeting the electorate before each assembly session, reporting back on decisions taken, and acting as development agents by mobilizing the youth for communal labour and self-help projects.
They also play a pivotal role in seeking assistance from philanthropies for community development purposes.
