????️ Mahama Orders MMDCEs to Declare Assets by July 15, Warns of Sanctions

????️ Mahama Orders MMDCEs to Declare Assets by July 15, Warns of Sanctions

Accra, Ghana – June 18, 2025 – President John Dramani Mahama has issued a firm directive to all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs): submit their asset declarations by July 15, 2025, or face strict sanctions.

????️ Constitutional Obligation & Accountability

Under Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution and the Public Office Holders (Declaration of Assets and Disqualification) Act, 1998 (Act 550), public office holders are legally required to declare assets and liabilities upon appointment, every four years, and at the end of their tenure 

At the June 18 orientation and training session in Accra, President Mahama emphasized that MMDCEs are included in this mandate and that compliance is non-negotiable. He noted that several appointees who previously failed to declare faced penalties—including forfeiture of three months’ salary—after missing the March 31 deadline 

???? Sanctions & Non-Interference Policy

The President reiterated that any MMDCE failing to meet the July 15 deadline will be sanctioned. He also stated unequivocally that he will not interfere with any investigations launched by the Auditor-General or anti-corruption bodies in cases of default .

“We expect you to ensure the judicious and transparent use of public funds,” Mahama warned, referencing the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), of which 80% goes directly to local executives 

???? Why This Matters

1. Reinforcing Transparency: Regular asset declaration is essential for rooting out corruption and building public trust.

2. Fiscal Responsibility: With increased DACF funding, oversight becomes critical to prevent misuse at the district level.

3. Precedent for Governance: Imposing consequences—even forfeiture of salary—signals a serious tone on accountability across all government levels ???? What’s Next

• By July 15: All MMDCEs are expected to submit their complete asset statements.

• Post-deadline: Anti-corruption bodies (Auditor-General, CHRAJ) will monitor compliance.

• Potential Penalties: Could include salary forfeiture, dismissal, or other administrative actions.